### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Tsêr**, represented by `{{H6863}}`, is a proper name for **a place in Palestine**. Its base meaning is derived from a word for **rock**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, identifying a specific location within the inheritance of the tribes of Israel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole biblical appearance, `{{H6863}}` is listed as one of the **fenced** `{{H4013}}` **cities** `{{H5892}}` within the territory allotted to the tribe of Naphtali [[Joshua 19:35]]. It is mentioned in a geographical catalog alongside other fortified towns such as Ziddim and Hammath. This context firmly establishes its identity as a specific, defensible location in ancient Palestine that was part of the Israelites' promised inheritance.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words appear alongside Zer, defining its geographical and strategic context:
* `{{H6661}}` **Tsiddîym** (sides; Tsiddim... a place in Palestine; Ziddim): A city listed immediately before Zer in the same catalog, helping to pinpoint its location [[Joshua 19:35]].
* `{{H2575}}` **Chammath** (hot springs; Chammath, a place in Palestine; Hammath): Mentioned in the same list, this name suggests a notable geographical feature near Zer [[Joshua 19:35]].
* `{{H4013}}` **mibtsâr** (a fortification, castle, or fortified city): This word is used to describe the group of towns including Zer, identifying them as strategically important "fenced cities" [[Joshua 19:35]].
* `{{H5892}}` **ʻîyr** (a city... in the widest sense): This general term for a city provides the foundational context for Zer as an established, guarded settlement [[Joshua 19:35]].
### Theological Significance
While appearing only once, the name `{{H6863}}` carries significance through its meaning and context.
* **Symbol of Security:** The name's root meaning, **rock**, combined with its description as a **fenced city** `{{H4013}}`, evokes a sense of strength, stability, and security.
* **Geographic Identity:** The inclusion of Zer in a detailed list of cities grounds the covenant promises in tangible, named locations, emphasizing the reality of the land allotment [[Joshua 19:35]].
* **Fortified Place:** As one of the "fenced cities," Zer represents a strategic point of defense. This concept of a fortified place is used elsewhere in scripture to metaphorically describe a person or people made strong by God [[Jeremiah 1:18]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6863}}` **Tsêr** is a specific geographical marker whose importance is tied to its context. Though it appears only once, its identity as a **fenced city** `{{H4013}}` and its root meaning of **rock** contribute to the biblical portrait of the promised land as a place of security and established inheritance. It serves as an example of how the biblical narrative is rooted in real-world geography and the tangible fulfillment of divine promises.
TRV