### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Sôwrêq**, represented by `{{H7796}}`, refers to a specific location, the **valley of Sorek** in Palestine. According to its base definition, it is also related to the word for a vine. It appears only **1 time** in the Bible, in a single verse, marking it as a unique geographical reference in a significant narrative.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical use of `{{H7796}}` places it as the setting for a pivotal moment in the life of Samson. In [[Judges 16:4]], it is recorded that **afterward**, Samson "loved a woman in the **valley of Sorek**, whose name was Delilah." This location is therefore directly associated with the beginning of the relationship that leads to Samson's downfall, making it a critical landmark in the narrative of the judges.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context help define the significance of the Valley of Sorek:
* `{{H5158}}` **nachal** (a stream, especially a winter torrent; a (narrow) valley): This word is used in conjunction with `{{H7796}}` to specify the type of location, identifying it as the "**valley** of Sorek" [[Judges 16:4]].
* `{{H157}}` **ʼâhab** (to have affection for (sexually or otherwise); (be-) love(-d, -ly, -r), like, friend): This is the action that occurs in Sorek; Samson **loved** Delilah here, initiating the events that followed [[Judges 16:4]].
* `{{H1807}}` **Dᵉlîylâh** (languishing; Delilah, a Philistine woman; Delilah): Her **name** `{{H8034}}` is inextricably linked to this valley, as she is the woman Samson loved there [[Judges 16:4]]. The story of her betrayal originates in this place.
### Theological Significance
The narrative weight of `{{H7796}}` is derived entirely from the event that it hosts.
* **A Place of Fateful Affection:** The Valley of Sorek is defined as the location where Samson's fateful love for Delilah began. The text explicitly states that "he **loved** a woman in the valley of Sorek" [[Judges 16:4]].
* **The Setting of Betrayal:** Though the verse itself only mentions love, the immediate context reveals that Delilah, the woman from Sorek, would go on to repeatedly press Samson for the secret of his strength [[Judges 16:6]] and ultimately betray him to the Philistines [[Judges 16:18]].
* **A Specific Narrative Landmark:** The use of **Sôwrêq** grounds the story of Samson and Delilah in a specific, named geographical location, adding a layer of historical and territorial reality to the account.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7796}}` is not a theological term but a significant geographical marker. Appearing only once, the name **Sôwrêq** is forever tied to the story of Samson and Delilah. It serves as the backdrop for a narrative of love, vulnerability, and betrayal, demonstrating how a specific place can gain profound importance by being the stage for a critical event in biblical history.
TRV