### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **qiryâh**, represented by `{{H7151}}`, refers to a **city** or a built-up place. Derived from a root meaning building or flooring, it appears **31 times** across **31 unique verses**. While it often denotes a literal, physical city, it is also used metaphorically to describe concepts of strength, security, and the character of a community.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H7151}}` is used in several key contexts. It identifies specific geographical locations, such as the "city of Sihon" [[Numbers 21:28]], Gilead as a "city of them that work iniquity" [[Hosea 6:8]], and Kirjath-arba, also known as Hebron ([[Joshua 15:13]], [[Joshua 21:11]]). The term is also used figuratively to personify the moral and spiritual condition of a people. Isaiah describes Jerusalem as the "faithful city" that has become a "harlot" [[Isaiah 1:21]] but will be restored to righteousness [[Isaiah 1:26]]. In Proverbs, wealth is depicted as a "strong city" for the rich ([[Proverbs 10:15]], [[Proverbs 18:11]]), and an offended brother is said to be harder to win than a "strong city" [[Proverbs 18:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of a city and its structure:
* `{{H5892}}` **ʻîyr** (a city): This is a common synonym for `{{H7151}}` and is often used in parallel to describe a city. For instance, God is said to have made "of a city (`ʻîyr`) an heap; of a defenced city (`qiryâh`) a ruin" [[Isaiah 25:2]].
* `{{H1129}}` **bânâh** (to build): This root verb for building is directly linked to the formation of a city. Habakkuk pronounces woe on him that "buildeth a town" and establishes a "city by iniquity" [[Habakkuk 2:12]].
* `{{H2346}}` **chôwmâh** (a wall): A defining feature of a city, the wall represents protection and security. A rich man's wealth is described as both his "strong city" and a "high wall" in his own conceit [[Proverbs 18:11]].
* `{{H1004}}` **bayith** (a house): Cities are composed of houses, and their fate is often linked. In the "city of confusion," every "house is shut up" [[Isaiah 24:10]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7151}}` is significant, often used to illustrate spiritual truths.
* **Symbol of Divine Judgment:** A city's destruction is frequently portrayed as an act of God's judgment against sin and pride. God brings down the "lofty city" and lays it low, even to the dust [[Isaiah 26:5]]. The "city of confusion is broken down" [[Isaiah 24:10]].
* **Reflection of Moral Character:** The word is used to personify the character of its inhabitants. A city can be "faithful" [[Isaiah 1:21]] or "joyous" [[Isaiah 22:2]]. Conversely, it can be a place of "iniquity" [[Hosea 6:8]] and violence [[Habakkuk 2:8]].
* **Place of God's Presence and Joy:** Zion is referred to as "the city of the great King" [[Psalms 48:2]], highlighting it as a place of divine dwelling and security. When it goes well with the righteous, the "city rejoiceth" [[Proverbs 11:10]], linking God's blessing to communal joy.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7151}}` is more than just a label for a town. It is a term that encompasses the ideas of building, fortification, and community. Biblically, it serves as a powerful symbol, representing both the physical and spiritual state of a people. Whether describing a literal place like Hebron or a metaphorical state like the "city of confusion," `qiryâh` illustrates how the character of a community is intimately tied to its ultimate judgment or blessing.
TRV