### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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