### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tamrûwr**, represented by `{{H8564}}`, refers to a **high heap**. It is derived from a root suggesting an erection or pillar, likely intended as a guide-board. This specific term appears only **1 times** in **1 unique verses** in the Bible, highlighting its specialized use.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H8564}}` is in [[Jeremiah 31:21]], a command directed to the "virgin `{{H1330}}` of Israel `{{H3478}}`". The verse instructs: "Set thee up waymarks, make thee **high heaps**". Here, **tamrûwr** is paired with "waymarks" `{{H6725}}` as a means of marking a path for return. The purpose is made clear as the people are told to "set thine heart `{{H3820}}` toward the highway `{{H4546}}`, even the way `{{H1870}}` which thou wentest `{{H1980}}`". The high heaps serve as prominent, visible guides for Israel's journey back to their cities.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in this context illuminate the meaning of establishing guides for a journey of return:
* `{{H6725}}` **tsîyûwn** (waymark): Defined as a "monumental or guiding pillar; sign, title, waymark," this word is used in direct parallel with `{{H8564}}` in the command to create visible markers for the path home [[Jeremiah 31:21]].
* `{{H1870}}` **derek** (way): This term signifies "a road" or, figuratively, "a course of life or mode of action." In [[Jeremiah 31:21]], it is the path that Israel formerly "wentest" on and must now remember in order to return. It represents the route that the high heaps are meant to identify.
* `{{H7725}}` **shûwb** (turn again): This primitive root means "to turn back" or "to return." It is the ultimate command and purpose for setting up the high heaps. The call to "turn again `{{H7725}}`, O virgin of Israel, turn again `{{H7725}}`" emphasizes that the markers facilitate a deliberate return [[Jeremiah 31:21]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8564}}` is concentrated in its single, poignant usage, representing God's call to his people.
* **Guidance for Restoration:** The high heaps are physical symbols of hope and direction. They are part of a divine instruction for the "virgin of Israel" `{{H1330}}` to prepare for their restoration and return to their "cities" `{{H5892}}`, a theme of mercy and rebuilding ([[Jeremiah 31:21]], [[Jeremiah 30:18]]).
* **Active Participation in Return:** The command is an active one: "Set thee up... make thee" [[Jeremiah 31:21]]. This shows that returning to God and one's heritage requires intentional effort. The people must set their "heart" `{{H3820}}` on the task, actively creating reminders of the path they must follow.
* **The Call to Turn Back:** The markers serve the ultimate goal of "shûwb" `{{H7725}}`, or turning back. This concept is central to the biblical theme of repentance, which involves forsaking a wicked "way" `{{H1870}}` and returning to the LORD [[Isaiah 55:7]]. The physical act of following the high heaps back home mirrors the spiritual act of turning one's heart back to God.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8564}}` **tamrûwr** is a highly specific term for a "high heap" used as a guidepost. Its singular use in scripture in [[Jeremiah 31:21]] imbues it with a focused meaning: it is an object created as part of an active, intentional effort to mark the path of return and restoration. Though rare, the word powerfully illustrates the biblical principle of creating clear markers to guide God's people on their journey back to Him and the places He has promised them.
TRV