The Hebrew term Tachtîym Chodshîy, represented by H8483, refers to a place in Palestine named Tahtim-hodshi. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible. The name's definition is apparently derived from words meaning "lower (ones) monthly," but its primary use in scripture is as a proper geographical name.
The single appearance of H8483 occurs in the narrative describing the census commanded by King David. In 2 Samuel 24:6, the men conducting the census "came to Gilead, and to the land of Tahtimhodshi; and they came to Danjaan, and about to Zidon". This verse places Tahtim-hodshi on a specific itinerary, positioning it as a recognized territory or landmark between the well-known region of Gilead and the area of Dan-jaan.
The context of its only mention links H8483 to several other significant locations and actions:
- H1568 Gilʻâd (Gilead): This is the region the census takers came from just before arriving at Tahtim-hodshi. Gilead is a prominent region east of the Jordan, known for being a place of refuge and conflict Amos 1:3.
- H1842 Dân Yaʻan (Dan-jaan): This location was visited immediately after Tahtim-hodshi. Its name means "judge of purpose" and it is also identified as a place in Palestine 2 Samuel 24:6.
- H6721 Tsîydôwn (Zidon): The census route continued from Dan-jaan toward this major coastal city, which was the final destination mentioned in the verse 2 Samuel 24:6.
- H776 'erets (land): Tahtim-hodshi is specifically designated as a "land," indicating it was a recognized territory or country 2 Samuel 24:6.
- H935 bôwʼ (to go or come): This verb is used twice in the verse to describe the arrival of the census takers at these locations, marking their progress through the region 2 Samuel 24:6.
The significance of H8483 is entirely derived from its geographical context within this single verse.
- Geographical Marker: Its primary role is to serve as a point on a map, marking a specific location during a significant national event. It provides a detail on the path taken from H1568 Gilead towards H1842 Dan-jaan and H6721 Zidon 2 Samuel 24:6.
- A Defined Territory: The Bible refers to it as "the land H776 of Tahtimhodshi," which suggests it was a distinct and known area at the time, even if it is not mentioned elsewhere in scripture 2 Samuel 24:6.
In summary, H8483 is an obscure biblical place name whose importance is tied to its singular mention. It is not a place of major events or theological discussion, but its inclusion in the census route of 2 Samuel 24:6 provides a level of geographical specificity. It exists in the biblical record as a waypoint, linking the major region of Gilead with other northern locations like Dan-jaan and Zidon during a pivotal moment in David's reign.
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