### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼEshkôl**, represented by `{{H812}}`, is drawn from the term for a **cluster** of grapes, `{{H811}}`. It appears **6 times** in **6 unique verses** and is used specifically as a proper name for both an Amorite man and a valley in Palestine. Its meaning is directly tied to the concept of fruitfulness and abundance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H812}}` first appears as the name of an Amorite `{{H567}}` man who was a **brother** `{{H251}}` to Mamre and Aner. These men were **confederate** `{{H1285}}` with Abram `{{H87}}` and were allotted a **portion** `{{H2506}}` of the spoils of war ([[Genesis 14:13]], [[Genesis 14:24]]). Later, the name is applied to a **valley** `{{H5158}}` explored by the Israelite spies. It was in this **valley** that they **cut down** `{{H3772}}` a **branch** `{{H2156}}` bearing a single massive **cluster** `{{H811}}` of **grapes** `{{H6025}}`, which required **two** `{{H8147}}` men to carry on a **staff** `{{H4132}}`. The **place** `{{H4725}}` was then **called** `{{H7121}}` the **brook** Eshcol precisely **because of** `{{H182}}` this cluster [[Numbers 13:23-24]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the context surrounding **ʼEshkôl**:
* `{{H811}}` **ʼeshkôwl** (cluster): This is the root word from which **ʼEshkôl** is derived, meaning a **bunch of grapes or other fruit**. The valley was named Eshcol because of the impressive **cluster** the spies found there [[Numbers 13:24]].
* `{{H5158}}` **nachal** (brook, valley): This word is consistently used to describe the location, as in "the **brook** of Eshcol" [[Numbers 13:23]] or "the **valley** of Eshcol" [[Deuteronomy 1:24]], pinpointing the geographical setting of the spies' discovery.
* `{{H251}}` **ʼâch** (brother): This term defines the familial relationship of Eshcol the man to his allies, Mamre and Aner [[Genesis 14:13]], establishing his identity within a local clan.
* `{{H1285}}` **bᵉrîyth** (covenant, confederacy): This word describes the formal alliance between Eshcol, his brothers, and Abram, highlighting a significant political and military compact [[Genesis 14:13]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H812}}` is twofold, touching on themes of promise, faith, and alliance.
* **Symbol of Divine Promise:** The valley of Eshcol, with its extraordinary fruitfulness, served as tangible evidence of the goodness of the **land** `{{H776}}` that the **LORD** `{{H3068}}` had **given** `{{H5414}}` to **Israel** `{{H3478}}`. The cluster of grapes was a sample of the abundance awaiting them [[Numbers 13:23]].
* **A Test of Faith:** Despite witnessing this proof of God's promise, the report from the valley of Eshcol ultimately **discouraged** `{{H5106}}` the **heart** `{{H3820}}` of the people [[Numbers 32:9]]. The site became a symbol not only of abundance but also of the pivotal moment where fear and unbelief overshadowed faith.
* **Covenant with Outsiders:** The first appearance of Eshcol as a person shows him as an Amorite who formed a **confederacy** `{{H1285}}` with Abram the **Hebrew** `{{H5680}}`. This highlights an early instance of covenantal relationship and mutual support between God's chosen patriarch and the inhabitants of the land [[Genesis 14:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H812}}` **ʼEshkôl** carries a dual identity as both a person allied with Abram and a place symbolizing the richness of the Promised Land. Rooted in the word for "cluster," it serves as a powerful biblical illustration. It at once represents the overwhelming goodness of God's provision and the critical human choice to respond with either faith-filled courage or discouraging fear.
TRV