The Hebrew word ʼEglayim, represented by H97, refers to a specific place in Moab. Its definition is "a double pond; Eglajim," suggesting a location known for a pair of reservoirs. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible, marking it as a highly specific geographical reference.
The sole biblical appearance of H97 is in the prophetic oracle against Moab found in Isaiah 15:8. In this passage, the prophet describes a wave of anguish sweeping across the nation. The cry of destruction goes "round about the borders of Moab," and its "howling" is heard specifically "unto Eglaim." The name is used as a geographical marker to emphasize the comprehensive and inescapable nature of the coming judgment, showing that the sorrow penetrates even to specific, named locations within the land.
The context of H97 is enriched by several surrounding words that depict the scene of national distress:
- H2201 zaʻaq (a shriek or outcry; cry(-ing)): This word establishes the sound of acute distress that fills the land of Moab Isaiah 15:8.
- H3215 yᵉlâlâh (a howl; a howling): This term for wailing is directly connected to Eglaim, as the verse states "the howling thereof unto Eglaim" Isaiah 15:8, painting a vivid picture of grief.
- H4124 Môwʼâb (Moab): This identifies the nation and people who are the subject of this prophecy of judgment, providing the overarching context for the lamentation heard at Eglaim Isaiah 15:8.
- H879 Bᵉʼêr ʼÊlîym (well of heroes; Beer-Elim): Mentioned in parallel with Eglaim, this location further defines the reach of the howling across Moab Isaiah 15:8.
While a place name, the use of H97 carries theological weight within its prophetic context.
- Specificity of Divine Judgment: The mention of a precise location like Eglaim underscores that God's judgments are not vague or abstract threats. They are pronounced against real places, demonstrating that prophecy has tangible, geographical consequences.
- A Landmark of Sorrow: In its only biblical reference, Eglaim is defined by the sound of "howling" Isaiah 15:8. It serves as a permanent scriptural landmark of the lamentation prophesied for Moab.
- The Totality of Judgment: By noting that the cry reaches the "borders" and then specific inland points like Eglaim and Beer-elim, the text emphasizes that no part of the nation will escape the coming sorrow Isaiah 15:8.
In summary, H97 ʼEglayim is more than just an ancient place name. Its singular mention in scripture solidifies its identity as a site of profound grief within the prophecy against Moab. It functions as a precise geographical anchor in Isaiah's oracle, illustrating the comprehensive and specific nature of divine judgment and ensuring that the "howling" in Moab is remembered as a total, inescapable event.
TRV