### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **qên**, represented by `{{H7064}}`, primarily means **nest**. It appears 13 times in 13 unique verses. While often referring to a literal bird's nest, its meaning extends figuratively to signify a place of security, a dwelling, or even architectural chambers.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H7064}}` is used in several distinct ways. In its most concrete sense, it refers to the "rooms" God commanded Noah to build within the ark [[Genesis 6:14]]. It is also used in the Law to describe a literal bird's **nest** found in a tree or on the ground [[Deuteronomy 22:6]]. Figuratively, it often represents a high and seemingly secure dwelling. The prophet Jeremiah rebukes Edom for its pride, which makes its **nest** as high as the eagle's in the clefts of the rock [[Jeremiah 49:16]]. Similarly, Habakkuk decries the one who covetously sets his **nest** on high to escape evil [[Habakkuk 2:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the context of security and dwelling associated with `{{H7064}}`:
* `{{H5404}}` **nesher** (the eagle): The **eagle** is frequently mentioned in connection with building its **nest** `{{H7064}}` in high, inaccessible places, which becomes a metaphor for pride and self-exaltation [[Obadiah 1:4]]. God's protective nature is also described as an **eagle** that "stirreth up her nest" [[Deuteronomy 32:11]].
* `{{H5553}}` **çelaʻ** (a craggy rock): This term for a natural fortress is often where a **nest** `{{H7064}}` is placed for safety. The Kenites are described as putting their **nest** in a **rock** [[Numbers 24:21]], and Edom is rebuked for making its high dwelling in the clefts of the **rock** [[Jeremiah 49:16]].
* `{{H1004}}` **bayith** (a house): This word for a dwelling is used in parallel with **nest** `{{H7064}}`. The sparrow finds a **house**, and the swallow a **nest**, at the altars of the LORD [[Psalms 84:3]], linking the idea of a nest to a place of sanctuary.
### Theological Significance
The figurative weight of `{{H7064}}` is significant, often highlighting the contrast between human pride and divine security.
* **Symbol of False Security:** The image of a **nest** built on high is repeatedly used to condemn arrogant self-reliance. God warns that even if one should make their **nest** as high as the eagle, He will bring them down ([[Jeremiah 49:16]], [[Obadiah 1:4]]).
* **A Place of Home and Stability:** The **nest** represents a place of belonging and peace. Job hoped to "die in my **nest**" [[Job 29:18]], and a man who wanders from his place is compared to a bird that wanders from her **nest** [[Proverbs 27:8]]. The daughters of Moab being cast out of the **nest** symbolizes judgment and displacement [[Isaiah 16:2]].
* **Divine Sanctuary:** In a poignant image, the sparrow is said to have found a **nest** for her young at God's altars [[Psalms 84:3]]. This beautifully illustrates that the ultimate place of safety and nurture is not in a self-made high fortress, but in the presence of God.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7064}}` is much more than a simple word for a bird's home. It serves as a powerful biblical metaphor, spanning from the literal "rooms" of the ark to a figurative symbol of a dwelling. It powerfully contrasts the fleeting, prideful security that humans build for themselves with the true, lasting sanctuary that is found only in God. The **nest** can be a high fortress of pride destined for ruin or a humble place of refuge at the altar of the LORD.
TRV