### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term תַּמְרוּר (tamrûwr, `{{H8564}}`) is derived from the same root as תָּמָר (tāmār), which typically refers to a palm tree. This etymological connection suggests a core meaning related to uprightness, height, or prominence. The base definition of tamrûwr points to "an erection, i.e., pillar," or more specifically, a "pillar (probably for a guide-board)" or a "high heap." Its semantic range thus encompasses prominent markers, signposts, landmarks, or any tall structure erected for a specific purpose, particularly for guidance or direction. It denotes something clearly visible and intentionally placed to indicate a way.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word tamrûwr appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in the book of Jeremiah:
* [[Jeremiah 31:21]]: "Set up road signs, put up guideposts; consider the highway, the road by which you went. Return, O virgin Israel, return to these your cities."
In this sole occurrence, tamrûwr is used in parallel with צִיּוּן (tsiyyûn, `{{H6725}}`), which means "sign" or "landmark." The context is Jeremiah's prophecy of the future restoration of Israel, where the exiles are called to return to their homeland. The prophet instructs them to "set up road signs" (tsiyyûn) and "put up guideposts" (tamrûwr). These are presented as practical, physical markers intended to aid the returning Israelites in finding their way back along the "highway" they once traveled. The usage here strongly supports the definition of tamrûwr as a prominent, directional marker, a literal signpost erected to guide travelers.
### Related Words & Concepts
The root of tamrûwr is shared with תָּמָר (tāmār), the palm tree, which is often associated with uprightness, beauty, and steadfastness. While tamrûwr itself is not a tree, the shared root emphasizes its nature as something tall and erect.
Other Hebrew words that convey similar concepts of markers, pillars, or signs include:
* מַצֵּבָה (matstsevah, `{{H4676}}`): A standing stone or pillar, often erected as a memorial or for cultic purposes (e.g., [[Genesis 28:18]], [[Exodus 24:4]]).
* צִיּוּן (tsiyyûn, `{{H6725}}`): A sign, landmark, or monument, particularly used for grave markers or road signs, as seen in its parallel usage with tamrûwr in [[Jeremiah 31:21]].
* נֵס (nēs, `{{H5251}}`): A standard, banner, or signal pole, often raised as a rallying point or a visible sign (e.g., [[Isaiah 11:12]]).
The concept uniting these words, and tamrûwr in particular, is the establishment of a visible, often elevated, marker to provide direction, commemorate an event, or signify a presence.
### Theological Significance
Despite its single occurrence, the theological significance of tamrûwr in [[Jeremiah 31:21]] is profound within the context of God's redemptive plan for Israel. The command to "set up guideposts" is not merely a practical instruction but a prophetic declaration of God's clear and certain intention to bring His people home.
The tamrûwr serves as a tangible symbol of:
1. **Divine Guidance:** Just as physical guideposts direct travelers, God provides clear guidance for His people's return to Him. The path is not left to chance or confusion; it is marked by divine foresight and provision.
2. **God's Faithfulness:** The presence of these markers underscores God's unwavering commitment to His covenant promises. He will ensure that His people find their way back to the land He promised and to a renewed relationship with Him.
3. **Clarity of the Call:** The "guideposts" signify that the call to repentance and return is unmistakable. There are no excuses for missing the way; the path is clearly delineated by God's own instruction.
In a broader sense, tamrûwr points to God's active involvement in human history, providing the necessary means and direction for His people to fulfill His purposes and experience His restoration.
### Summary
The Hebrew word תַּמְרוּר (tamrûwr, `{{H8564}}`) denotes a prominent marker or guidepost, derived from a root suggesting uprightness and visibility. Its sole biblical appearance in [[Jeremiah 31:21]] precisely illustrates this meaning, referring to literal road signs set up to guide the exiled Israelites back to their homeland. Theologically, tamrûwr symbolizes God's clear and certain guidance, His faithfulness in fulfilling His promises, and the unmistakable clarity of His call to repentance and restoration for His people. It represents the divine provision of a marked path for return.
TRV