### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼĂrûwmâh**, represented by `{{H725}}`, is the name of a place in Palestine, with a literal meaning related to **height**. It appears only **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, marking it as a highly specific geographical reference within a single narrative.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H725}}` is in the book of Judges, where it serves as the residence of a key figure during a period of civil strife. The verse states that **Abimelech** `{{H40}}` **dwelt** `{{H3427}}` at **Arumah** after his officer, **Zebul** `{{H2083}}`, had expelled his rival **Gaal** `{{H1603}}` and his kinsmen from the nearby city of **Shechem** `{{H7927}}`. In this context, **Arumah** functions as Abimelech's base of operations or stronghold during his contentious rule over Shechem [[Judges 9:41]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its single appearance provide the narrative context for **Arumah**:
* `{{H40}}` **ʼĂbîymelek** (father of (the) king; Abimelek): He is the central character who resides in **Arumah**, and the conflict revolves around his authority [[Judges 9:41]].
* `{{H3427}}` **yâshab** (to dwell, to remain): This verb describes Abimelech's state of living in **Arumah**, contrasting his secure position with the expulsion of his enemies who were not allowed to **dwell** in Shechem [[Judges 9:41]].
* `{{H7927}}` **Shᵉkem** (ridge; Shechem, a place in Palestine): This city is the center of the conflict. The events at **Arumah** are directly tied to the power struggle over **Shechem** [[Judges 9:41]].
* `{{H1603}}` **Gaʻal** (loathing; Gaal, an Israelite): The antagonist to Abimelech, whose expulsion from Shechem is orchestrated while Abimelech is at **Arumah** [[Judges 9:41]].
### Theological Significance
While a minor place name, the context surrounding `{{H725}}` carries significant thematic weight within the book of Judges.
* **A Locus of Conflict:** **Arumah** serves as the backdrop for a conflict rooted in treachery. The dossier notes that God sent an "evil spirit" between **Abimelech** and the men of **Shechem**, leading to the strife that positions **Arumah** as Abimelech's strategic dwelling [[Judges 9:23]].
* **A Seat of Human Authority:** From **Arumah**, Abimelech’s authority is exerted, resulting in the expulsion of **Gaal** and his **brethren** `{{H251}}`. The act of driving out, described by the word **gârash** `{{H1644}}`, mirrors a theme of divine judgment seen elsewhere in scripture, such as when God promises to **thrust out** Israel's enemies [[Deuteronomy 33:27]].
* **Symbol of Internal Strife:** The events connecting **Arumah** and **Shechem** underscore the chaotic and violent nature of the era of the Judges, highlighting the devastating consequences of flawed leadership and disunity among the Israelite people [[Judges 9:41]].
### Summary
In summary, **Arumah** `{{H725}}` is more than just a forgotten place name. Though mentioned only once, it is embedded in a critical narrative about power, betrayal, and judgment in the book of Judges. It functions as the specific location from which Abimelech asserts his rule, making it a key element in understanding the story of his violent conflict with the people of Shechem and his rival, Gaal.
TRV