### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **qidmâh**, represented by `{{H6926}}`, functions as a specific term for the **east** or **eastward**. As the feminine of קֶדֶם, meaning the forward part, it appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible. While infrequent, its usage marks significant geographical and relational positioning within the biblical narrative.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In Scripture, `{{H6926}}` is used to define locations with significant consequence. It marks the direction of Cain's exile after he **went out** `{{H3318}}` from the presence of the LORD, to **dwell** `{{H3427}}` in the land of Nod **on the east** of Eden [[Genesis 4:16]]. It also serves as a geographical marker for the river **Hiddekel** `{{H2313}}`, which **goeth toward** `{{H1980}}` the **east** of Assyria [[Genesis 2:14]]. In a military context, it positions the Philistine army **eastward** from Bethaven before a conflict with **Israel** `{{H3478}}` [[1 Samuel 13:5]]. Finally, it is used prophetically to designate the location for the burial of **Gog** `{{H1463}}` and his **multitude** `{{H1995}}` in a valley **on the east** of the **sea** `{{H3220}}` [[Ezekiel 39:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help establish the context of direction and location associated with **qidmâh**:
* `{{H1980}}` **hâlak** (to walk, go): This root describes movement and is used to show the river Hiddekel's path as it **goeth toward** the east [[Genesis 2:14]].
* `{{H3427}}` **yâshab** (to dwell, remain): This word indicates settling in a location, as when **Cain** `{{H7014}}` **dwelt** in the land of Nod after moving to the **east** [[Genesis 4:16]].
* `{{H4725}}` **mâqôwm** (place): This term denotes a specific spot or locality, such as the **place** of graves that God will **give** `{{H5414}}` to Gog on the **east** of the sea [[Ezekiel 39:11]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H6926}}` is rooted in its directional symbolism.
* **A Direction of Separation:** The primary theological use is to signify a movement away from God's established presence. Cain's journey **east** of Eden represents a physical and spiritual exile [[Genesis 4:16]].
* **A Marker of Divine Order:** In the description of the Garden of Eden, the use of **qidmâh** helps to map out the world as ordered by God, with the river **Hiddekel** `{{H2313}}` flowing **toward the east** of **Assyria** `{{H804}}` [[Genesis 2:14]].
* **A Site of Final Judgment:** Prophetically, the term designates the **place** `{{H4725}}` where God's enemies will meet their end. The valley **on the east** of the **sea** `{{H3220}}` becomes the burial ground for **Gog** `{{H1463}}` and his **multitude** `{{H1995}}`, signifying a conclusive and visible judgment [[Ezekiel 39:11]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6926}}` is much more than a simple geographical direction. It is a term used with deliberate purpose to mark locations of profound narrative and theological weight. From indicating a place of exile and separation from God to defining the boundaries of the created world and the site of future judgment, **qidmâh** consistently points to a region of consequence and finality.
TRV