### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Tadmôr**, represented by `{{H8412}}`, refers to a specific place named **Tadmor**, or "palm-city". It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. The term identifies a city near Palestine that was built in the wilderness.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H8412}}` is mentioned as part of King Solomon's significant building projects. It is listed alongside Baalath as a city built "in the wilderness" [[1 Kings 9:18]]. The account in 2 Chronicles provides more detail, specifying that Solomon "built Tadmor in the wilderness, and all the store cities" in the region of Hamath [[2 Chronicles 8:4]]. In both instances, Tadmor is presented as a constructed settlement in an otherwise untamed land.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the significance of Tadmor's construction:
* `{{H1129}}` **bânâh** (to build): This root word is central to the account of Tadmor, which was "built" by Solomon [[2 Chronicles 8:4]]. It is used both literally for construction and figuratively for establishing a family or nation.
* `{{H4057}}` **midbâr** (wilderness): This term describes Tadmor's location. A wilderness or desert is often depicted as an uninhabited or desolate place, highlighting the achievement of building a city there ([[1 Kings 9:18]], [[2 Chronicles 8:4]]).
* `{{H5892}}` **ʻîyr** (city): Tadmor is identified as a city, and specifically as one of the "store cities" [[2 Chronicles 8:4]]. A city in the biblical sense is a guarded place of settlement and a center of human activity.
### Theological Significance
While Tadmor itself is a geographical location, its context carries theological weight.
* **Bringing Order to the Wilderness:** The act of building a city like Tadmor in the wilderness `{{H4057}}` demonstrates the theme of extending divine order and human stewardship into untamed regions. It mirrors God's power to make "a way in the wilderness" [[Isaiah 43:19]].
* **Divine and Royal Building:** The construction of Tadmor is an exercise of royal authority. However, Scripture reminds us that such works are ultimately dependent on God's blessing, as "Except the LORD build `{{H1129}}` the house, they labour in vain that build it" [[Psalms 127:1]].
* **Strategic Strongholds:** As one of the "store cities" [[2 Chronicles 8:4]], Tadmor represents strategic planning and the establishment of secure centers for the kingdom's provision and defense, reflecting a responsible rule.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8412}}` is the proper name for a "palm-city" whose significance is derived entirely from its biblical context. Though mentioned only twice, its story as a city built by Solomon in the wilderness serves as a powerful illustration of key biblical themes. It represents the extension of order, the exercise of God-given authority, and the strategic establishment of civilization in otherwise desolate lands.
TRV