### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **taʼăvâh**, represented by `{{H8379}}`, denotes a **limit** or **utmost bound**. It is an exceedingly rare term in the biblical text, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**. Its singular usage defines the complete and total extent of a concept, establishing a boundary at its fullest measure.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H8379}}` is in [[Genesis 49:26]], within Jacob's final blessing over his son Joseph. In this prophetic declaration, the blessings of the father are said to have "prevailed above the blessings of my progenitors unto the **utmost bound** of the everlasting hills." Here, the word is used to describe the immense and far-reaching scope of the blessing bestowed upon Joseph, suggesting it extends to the very limits of the permanent, physical world.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of `{{H8379}}` is illuminated by the words surrounding it in its only context:
* `{{H1389}}` **gibʻâh** (hillock): The "utmost bound" is applied to the everlasting **hills**. This imagery grounds the abstract blessing in a tangible, expansive landmark, emphasizing its vastness [[Genesis 49:26]].
* `{{H5769}}` **ʻôwlâm** (everlasting): This term, meaning eternity or time out of mind, modifies the hills to which the boundary applies. It indicates that the blessing's extent is not only vast in space but also permanent and enduring through time [[Genesis 49:26]].
* `{{H1293}}` **Bᵉrâkâh** (blessing): The "utmost bound" gives measure to the patriarchal **blessing**. It shows that the favor and prosperity being conferred are without restriction, reaching their maximum possible extent [[Genesis 49:26]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H8379}}`, though drawn from a single verse, is potent. It helps to define the nature of patriarchal promises.
* **The Scope of Blessing:** The word establishes that a blessing from God, delivered through a patriarch, can have a defined yet immeasurable scope. It represents the fullness of a promise, extending to the furthest conceivable limit.
* **Permanent Inheritance:** By connecting the boundary to "the everlasting hills," the term ties Joseph's inheritance to the permanence of God's creation. The blessing is not fleeting but is as stable and enduring as the earth itself [[Genesis 49:26]].
* **Figurative Limit:** `{{H8379}}` serves as a figurative marker for the total extent of favor upon Joseph, who was **separate** `{{H5139}}` from his **brethren** `{{H251}}`. The blessing is shown to have **prevailed** `{{H1396}}`, reaching a full and complete measure.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8379}}` is a specific and potent term for "utmost bound." While used only once, its appearance in [[Genesis 49:26]] is crucial for understanding the magnitude of the blessing given to Joseph. It conveys a sense of ultimate and enduring scope, demonstrating how a single word can establish the vast and permanent nature of a divine promise, stretching to the very limits of the everlasting hills.
TRV