### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **qâdûwm**, represented by `{{H6917}}`, is a term for **ancient**. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible. Based on its root, it can also signify a pristine hero. Its single usage gives a sense of enduring, primeval character to a specific geographical feature involved in a pivotal moment of Israel's history.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H6917}}` is in the Song of Deborah and Barak, a victory hymn celebrating God's deliverance of Israel from their Canaanite oppressors. The text describes the Kishon River's role in the battle, stating, "The river of Kishon swept them away, that **ancient** river, the river Kishon" [[Judges 5:21]]. By labeling the river as **ancient**, the text elevates it from a simple body of water to a landmark with deep historical significance, an enduring witness to God's power.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the action and location described as **ancient**:
* `{{H7028}}` **Qîyshôwn** (winding; Kishon, a river of Palestine): This is the proper name of the river identified as **ancient**. The Kishon is the setting for several key biblical events, including the defeat of Sisera's army [[Judges 4:7]] and Elijah's execution of the prophets of Baal [[1 Kings 18:40]].
* `{{H5158}}` **nachal** (a stream, especially a winter torrent; brook, flood, river, stream, valley): This is the generic word for "river" used alongside `{{H6917}}` in [[Judges 5:21]]. It connects the specific "ancient" river to the broader biblical imagery of streams, which can symbolize divine blessing, judgment, or provision [[Amos 5:24]].
* `{{H1640}}` **gâraph** (to bear off violently; sweep away): This verb describes the powerful action of the **ancient** river. It shows that the river's ancientness is linked to a formidable force capable of acting as an instrument of divine will, sweeping away the enemies of Israel [[Judges 5:21]].
### Theological Significance
The conceptual weight of `{{H6917}}` is derived entirely from its powerful context in [[Judges 5:21]].
* **Enduring Witness:** Calling the river "ancient" suggests it is a permanent feature of the landscape that has witnessed God's works over a long period. Its role in the battle is not a random occurrence but an act in line with its long-standing presence.
* **Creation as an Agent of God:** The use of **qâdûwm** personifies the river as a historic, powerful entity. It illustrates a theological theme where elements of the natural world act in accordance with God's purposes to bring about deliverance and judgment.
* **Primordial Power:** The term connects the river's physical force, which "swept them away," to its ancient character, implying a deep, almost primordial strength that God unleashes at the decisive moment.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{H6917}}` is one of the rarest words in the Hebrew Bible, its single use is impactful. It defines the Kishon River not just as old, but as an **ancient** and powerful force. The word transforms a geographical location into a symbol of God's enduring power, showing how He can use the long-established features of His creation to enact His will in human history.
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