### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term H8303 (שִׁרְיוֹן, Shiryôwn) is a proper noun, specifically a geographical designation. Its base definition identifies it as "Sirion" or "Shirjon," a prominent peak of the Lebanon mountain range. Etymologically, the name is understood to derive from a root meaning "sheeted with snow," referencing the perpetually snow-capped summit of this mountain. This etymology connects it conceptually, though not semantically in the same way, to related terms like שְׂרָיָה `{{H8304}}`, which share a root implying spreading out or covering, thus leading to the image of a snow-covered peak. In biblical geography, Sirion is unequivocally identified as the Sidonian name for Mount Hermon, the highest mountain in the Anti-Lebanon range, forming the northernmost boundary of the land of Israel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word H8303 appears in two distinct biblical contexts, each illuminating a different facet of its significance:
1. **[[Deuteronomy 3:9]]**: "The Sidonians call Hermon Sirion, while the Amorites call it Senir." This verse occurs within Moses' recounting of the conquest of Bashan and the division of the land east of the Jordan. Here, Sirion is presented as the Sidonian appellation for Mount Hermon, alongside the Amorite name Senir `{{H8149}}`. This highlights the mountain's importance as a well-known geographical landmark, recognized by various peoples in the region under different names. It serves as a clear northern marker for the conquered territories, emphasizing the extent of God's provision and the boundaries of the promised land. The mention of multiple names underscores the cultural diversity of the ancient Near East and the mountain's enduring prominence.
2. **[[Psalm 29:6]]**: "He makes Lebanon skip like a calf, and Sirion like a young wild ox." This verse is part of a majestic psalm celebrating the voice of the Lord (qôl Yahweh), often interpreted as the sound of a powerful thunderstorm. Here, Sirion, along with Lebanon `{{H3844}}`, is personified as being made to "skip" or "leap" by the sheer power of God's voice. This vivid imagery depicts the might of the Creator, before whom even the most imposing and stable elements of creation, such as towering mountains, are rendered as light and agile. The mention of Sirion specifically, as a perpetually snow-capped and formidable peak, amplifies the demonstration of divine power.
### Related Words & Concepts
The study of H8303 is enriched by its relationship to several other Hebrew terms and broader concepts:
* **חֶרְמוֹן (Hermon) `{{H2768}}`**: This is the most common and widely recognized name for the mountain H8303 refers to. Sirion is explicitly stated in [[Deuteronomy 3:9]] as the Sidonian name for Hermon, making them synonymous in reference to the same geographical feature.
* **שְׂנִיר (Senir) `{{H8149}}`**: Also mentioned in [[Deuteronomy 3:9]], Senir is presented as the Amorite name for Mount Hermon, further emphasizing the mountain's multi-cultural recognition and its role as a significant landmark.
* **לְבָנוֹן (Lebanon) `{{H3844}}`**: Sirion is a peak within the broader Lebanon mountain range. Its inclusion alongside Lebanon in [[Psalm 29:6]] underscores its status as a prominent and representative part of this significant geographic feature.
* **שְׂרָיָה (Serayah) `{{H8304}}`**: While H8304 primarily denotes a personal name (e.g., "Yahweh is a prince"), the Strong's definition of H8303 links it to שְׂרָיָה in the sense of being "sheeted with snow." This suggests a shared linguistic root related to spreading or covering, which in the context of the mountain refers to its snowy mantle, rather than an identical meaning to the personal name.
* **Mountains as Symbols**: In biblical thought, mountains often symbolize stability, majesty, and enduring strength. They are also frequently sites of divine revelation and encounter. Sirion, as a towering, snow-capped peak, embodies these symbolic qualities, yet its depiction in [[Psalm 29]] powerfully subverts this, demonstrating God's ultimate sovereignty even over the most steadfast elements of creation.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of H8303 (Sirion) primarily revolves around two key themes:
1. **Divine Sovereignty Over Creation**: The most profound theological insight comes from [[Psalm 29:6]]. Sirion, a majestic and unmoving mountain, is depicted as "skipping" before the voice of the Lord. This powerful anthropomorphism serves as a dramatic declaration of God's absolute power and authority over the natural world. No created thing, however grand or formidable, can withstand the divine will. The very foundations of the earth tremble and respond to the Creator's command, demonstrating His incomparable majesty and omnipotence. This imagery inspires awe and reinforces the biblical truth that all creation is subservient to the Lord.
2. **God's Covenantal Faithfulness and Dominion**: In [[Deuteronomy 3:9]], Sirion marks the northern extent of the land given to Israel. It stands as a geographical testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His covenant promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The identification of this peak by its various names highlights its enduring presence as a witness to the unfolding of God's redemptive plan. It signifies the tangible boundaries of the promised inheritance, underscoring God's dominion over specific territories and His meticulous provision for His people. Sirion, therefore, is not merely a mountain but a silent, majestic monument to divine fidelity and the scope of God's sovereign rule.
### Summary
H8303 (שִׁרְיוֹן, Shiryôwn) refers to Sirion, the Sidonian name for Mount Hermon, a prominent, perpetually snow-capped peak in the Anti-Lebanon range. Its etymology, "sheeted with snow," aptly describes its appearance. Biblically, it appears in [[Deuteronomy 3:9]] as a crucial geographical marker defining the northern boundary of Israel's promised land, highlighting God's covenantal faithfulness. In [[Psalm 29:6]], Sirion is portrayed as trembling and "skipping" before the voice of the Lord, serving as a powerful symbol of God's absolute sovereignty and irresistible power over all creation. Thus, Sirion stands as both a testament to divine provision and an enduring symbol of God's majestic dominion.
TRV