### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Râmath Lechîy**, represented by `{{H7437}}`, translates to **height of a jaw-bone**. It is a highly specific term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. It is not a common word but a proper noun for a place in Palestine, named to commemorate the specific event recorded in scripture. Its definition, from רָמָה (height) and לְחִי (jaw-bone), is a literal description of the action that consecrated the site.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical appearance of `{{H7437}}` is in [[Judges 15:17]]. The context is the immediate aftermath of Samson's victory over the Philistines. The verse states that when Samson had made an **end** `{{H3615}}` of **speaking** `{{H1696}}`, he **cast away** `{{H7993}}` the **jawbone** `{{H3895}}` out of his **hand** `{{H3027}}`. In that moment of finality, he **called** `{{H7121}}` that **place** `{{H4725}}` **Ramathlehi**. The naming of the location serves as the capstone to the event, permanently linking the site to the weapon used and the victory won.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from the context of [[Judges 15:17]] illuminate the meaning of **Ramathlehi**:
* `{{H3895}}` **lᵉchîy** (the cheek; hence, the jaw-bone): This is the core component of the name, identifying the unconventional weapon at the center of the event. It is also used to refer to the `cheek bone {{H3895}}` in the context of being smitten by enemies [[Psalms 3:7]].
* `{{H7993}}` **shâlak** (to throw out, down or away): This verb describes the decisive action Samson took after his victory. The word is used elsewhere for spiritually significant actions, such as when God will **cast** `{{H7993}}` sins into the sea [[Micah 7:19]] or when one is to **cast** `{{H7993}}` their burden upon the Lord [[Psalms 55:22]].
* `{{H7121}}` **qârâʼ** (to call out to... give name): This signifies the act of naming that transforms a location into a memorial. The term is used throughout scripture for invoking God, as in "they shall **call** `{{H7121}}` on my name, and I will hear them" [[Zechariah 13:9]], and for assigning a name of great importance [[Isaiah 9:6]].
* `{{H4725}}` **mâqôwm** (a standing, i.e. a spot; but used widely of a locality): This defines what was named—the physical **place** `{{H4725}}` of the event. The Bible often designates a `mâqôwm` as a place chosen by God for a specific purpose, such as worship [[Deuteronomy 16:16]] or as a promised destination [[Exodus 3:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H7437}}` is tied to the event it commemorates.
* **Memorialization of an Event:** The naming of a **place** `{{H4725}}` serves to create a lasting record of God's actions. By **calling** `{{H7121}}` the site Ramath-lehi, Samson ensures the victory is not forgotten, echoing a biblical pattern where God records His name in places to mark His presence and blessing [[Exodus 20:24]].
* **The Finality of Casting Away:** Samson's action to **cast away** `{{H7993}}` the jawbone signifies the definitive end of the conflict. This physical act mirrors the spiritual principle of decisively putting things aside, such as **casting away** `{{H7993}}` transgressions [[Ezekiel 18:31]].
* **Power Manifested Through an Instrument:** The victory was achieved with a simple jawbone in Samson's **hand** `{{H3027}}`. The "hand" is a common biblical symbol for power and means. The event demonstrates how God's deliverance can be achieved through unlikely instruments, reflecting the truth that the **hand** `{{H3027}}` of God is upon His people for good [[Ezra 8:22]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7437}}` **Râmath Lechîy** is more than just a place name; it is a monument in words. Occurring only once, its meaning is entirely contained within the narrative of Samson's triumph in [[Judges 15:17]]. The name fuses the object used (a jawbone), the action performed (casting it from a height), and the purpose (to memorialize a great victory). It stands as a powerful example of how a specific location can be permanently imbued with theological meaning through a single, divinely-empowered event.
TRV