### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Sᵉʻîyrâh**, represented by `{{H8167}}`, is a proper noun for **Seirath**, a place in Palestine. Derived from a word meaning **roughness**, it appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Its significance is entirely drawn from its role as a destination of escape in the book of Judges.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole biblical appearance, `{{H8167}}` is the place where the judge Ehud found safety. After assassinating the Moabite king, Ehud **escaped** `{{H4422}}` while the king's servants tarried. The narrative specifically states that he "passed beyond{H5674} the quarries, and escaped{H4422} unto **Seirath**{H8167}" [[Judges 3:26]]. This context establishes Seirath as a physical location of refuge, crucial for the success of Ehud's mission as a deliverer for Israel.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context help illuminate the importance of this event:
* `{{H164}}` **ʼÊhûwd** (Ehud): This is the name of the deliverer whom the LORD raised up for Israel [[Judges 3:15]]. His successful escape to Seirath was a critical step in his campaign to free his people.
* `{{H4422}}` **mâlaṭ** (to escape, deliver): This word, used twice in the verse, describes Ehud's action of getting away to Seirath. It is also used theologically for God's deliverance, as when He promises to **deliver** His people who are found written in the book [[Daniel 12:1]].
* `{{H5674}}` **ʻâbar** (to cross over, pass beyond): This verb describes how Ehud **passed beyond** the quarries to reach his destination. The term is also used for God's mercy which **passeth by** the transgression of His people [[Micah 7:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8167}}` is understood through its narrative function as a place of refuge.
* **Sanctuary for God's Agent:** Seirath serves as the physical sanctuary for Ehud, a deliverer raised up by the Lord [[Judges 3:15]]. Its role as a safe haven was essential for the continuation of God's plan of deliverance for Israel.
* **Symbol of Deliverance:** The journey to Seirath is marked by the act of escape `{{H4422}}`, a concept repeatedly linked to God's power to save His people from their troubles [[Psalms 41:1]] and deliver them from destruction [[Psalms 107:20]].
* **Passing from Danger to Safety:** Ehud's act of passing beyond `{{H5674}}` a landmark to reach Seirath mirrors a greater spiritual theme of God bringing His people through trials, such as passing through the waters [[Isaiah 43:2]], until calamities are overpast [[Psalms 57:1]].
### Summary
In summary, while **Sᵉʻîyrâh** `{{H8167}}` is a location mentioned only once, its importance is magnified by its context. As **Seirath**, it is more than just a place name; it is the destination that marks the successful escape of God's chosen deliverer, Ehud. The event connects this location to the powerful themes of divine deliverance, refuge, and the journey from peril to safety that is central to the biblical narrative.
TRV