### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Sôwkôh**, represented by `{{H7755}}`, is the name given to two places in Palestine. It appears 8 times across 7 unique verses and is rendered in various forms such as Shocho, Shochoh, Sochoh, Soco, and Socoh. These locations are significant in the geography and history of the tribe of Judah.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H7755}}` is identified in two distinct geographical regions within Judah. One city named Socoh was located in the mountains [[Joshua 15:48]], while the other was situated in the low country, or Shephelah [[Joshua 15:35]]. The lowland Socoh features prominently as a strategic military site. The Philistines gathered their armies there for a pivotal battle with Israel, camping between Shochoh and Azekah [[1 Samuel 17:1]]. It was also among the cities of Judah invaded and taken by the Philistines [[2 Chronicles 28:18]]. In times of strength, however, it was fortified as a defensive city [[2 Chronicles 11:7]] and was part of an administrative district under Solomon [[1 Kings 4:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context surrounding Sôwkôh:
* `{{H3063}}` **Yᵉhûwdâh** (Judah): Sôwkôh is consistently located within the territory of Judah, described as a city that "belongeth to Judah" [[1 Samuel 17:1]] and listed in its tribal inheritance [[Joshua 15:35]].
* `{{H6430}}` **Pᵉlishtîy** (Philistine): The Philistines are the primary antagonists in the accounts involving Sôwkôh, using it as a staging ground for war [[1 Samuel 17:1]] and later invading it [[2 Chronicles 28:18]].
* `{{H8219}}` **shᵉphêlâh** (low country): This term specifies the location of one of the two towns, placing it in the strategically important foothills between the coastal plain and the mountains of Judah [[2 Chronicles 28:18]].
* `{{H2022}}` **har** (mountain): This distinguishes the other town of Socoh, placing it in the hill country of Judah [[Joshua 15:48]].
* `{{H1}}` **ʼâb** (father): This term is used genealogically to establish the leadership of the city, identifying Heber as the "father of Socho" [[1 Chronicles 4:18]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H7755}}` is primarily historical and geographical, anchoring key events in Israel's story.
* **Strategic Frontier:** Located in regions bordering Philistine territory, Sôwkôh often served as a frontline in the conflicts between Israel and the Philistines. Its mention highlights critical moments of military confrontation [[1 Samuel 17:1]].
* **Indicator of National Strength:** The status of Sôwkôh reflects the state of the nation. It was fortified by Rehoboam during a period of consolidation [[2 Chronicles 11:7]], but was lost to invaders when Judah was weak and disobedient [[2 Chronicles 28:18]].
* **Genealogical and Civil Identity:** Sôwkôh was not merely a military outpost but an established settlement with its own lineage, as indicated by Heber being its "father" [[1 Chronicles 4:18]]. It was also integrated into the administrative structure of Solomon's kingdom [[1 Kings 4:10]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7755}}` Sôwkôh identifies two important towns within the tribe of Judah. While appearing infrequently, these mentions mark locations of significant military, administrative, and genealogical importance. Sôwkôh's history serves as a geographical touchstone for understanding the ongoing struggles and societal structure of ancient Israel, particularly its relationship with the Philistines on its western border.
TRV