### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **bᵉʼâh**, represented by `{{H872}}`, refers to **an entrance to a building; entry**. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, making its single appearance highly specific and contextually significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H872}}` is found in the prophetic visions of Ezekiel. In a vision, God directs the prophet's attention, saying, "lift up{H5375} thine eyes{H5869} now the way{H1870} toward the north{H6828}" [[Ezekiel 8:5]]. Upon obeying, Ezekiel sees "at the gate{H8179} of the altar{H4196} this image{H5566} of jealousy{H7068} in the **entry**{H872}" [[Ezekiel 8:5]]. Here, the word pinpoints the exact location of a profound desecration—an idolatrous image placed at the very entrance associated with worship and sacrifice.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{H872}}` is illuminated by several related words found in its surrounding passage:
* `{{H8179}}` **shaʻar** (gate): Defined as "an opening, i.e. door or gate," this word establishes the larger structure where the "entry" is located. The presence of an idol at the gate of the altar signifies a corruption of access to a holy place.
* `{{H4196}}` **mizbêach** (altar): The entry is specifically connected to the "altar," the central point of sacrifice and atonement [[Leviticus 17:11]]. This highlights the severity of placing an idol at the entrance to such a sacred site.
* `{{H5566}}` **çemel** (image): This is the object found "in the entry." Defined as a "likeness; figure, idol, image," its placement is an act of direct provocation, described as the "image of jealousy" [[Ezekiel 8:5]].
* `{{H7068}}` **qinʼâh** (jealousy): This word, meaning "jealousy or envy," describes the nature of the idol. The fire of God's "jealousy" is a response to such unfaithfulness [[Zephaniah 1:18]].
### Theological Significance
Though used only once, the theological weight of `{{H872}}` comes from its pointed context in Ezekiel's vision.
* **Desecration of Sacred Space:** The primary significance of `{{H872}}` is to mark a precise point of sacrilege. An "image of jealousy" [[Ezekiel 8:5]] stands in the "entry," defiling the approach to the "altar" `{{H4196}}`, a place meant for atonement and worship.
* **The Provocation of Idolatry:** The scene at the "entry" illustrates a direct challenge to God's holiness. This act provokes divine "jealousy" `{{H7068}}`, a theme central to God's covenant relationship with Israel, as His "zeal" will not tolerate rivals [[Isaiah 9:7]].
* **Divine Exposure of Sin:** God commands Ezekiel to "lift up" `{{H5375}}` his "eyes" `{{H5869}}` to witness the sin at the entry. This act demonstrates that nothing is hidden from God's sight and that He will expose sin, even in the most sacred locations.
### Summary
In summary, **bᵉʼâh** `{{H872}}` is a highly specific term whose importance is derived entirely from its singular, powerful context. It denotes the "entry" to the altar's gate, a space that should be holy but is instead shown to be defiled by an "image of jealousy." This single use in [[Ezekiel 8:5]] serves as a stark biblical illustration of idolatry, the desecration of worship, and the certainty of divine judgment against such provocation.
TRV