### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **bachîyn**, represented by `{{H971}}`, is defined as a **tower** or, more specifically, a **watch-tower of besiegers**. This is a very rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Its meaning is therefore entirely shaped by its single appearance in scripture.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The only use of `{{H971}}` is in [[Isaiah 23:13]], which describes the history of the "land of the Chaldeans" `{{H3778}}`. According to the verse, this land was founded by the Assyrian `{{H804}}` for a people from the wilderness `{{H6728}}`. As part of this establishment, the Assyrians "set up the **towers** thereof, they raised up the palaces thereof." The verse immediately concludes by stating that this created settlement was then brought "to ruin" `{{H4654}}`. The **tower**, in this context, is a feature of a newly constructed but ultimately temporary settlement.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its single context in [[Isaiah 23:13]] help clarify its meaning:
* `{{H3245}}` **yâçad** (to found): The Assyrians **founded** the land where the towers were built. This root word emphasizes the act of establishment and creation that precedes the construction of the tower [[Isaiah 23:13]].
* `{{H759}}` **ʼarmôwn** (palace): This word is used in parallel with towers, indicating that **towers** and **palaces** were key structures in the settlement built by the Assyrians. Both signify significant, elevated buildings [[Isaiah 23:13]].
* `{{H4654}}` **mappâlâh** (ruin): This term points to the final state of the land and its structures, including the towers. It frames the act of building the tower as part of a cycle that ends in destruction [[Isaiah 23:13]].
* `{{H6965}}` **qûwm** (to rise, set up): This is the verb used to describe the action of erecting the towers. It signifies the establishment and physical raising of these structures from the ground [[Isaiah 23:13]].
### Theological Significance
The thematic weight of `{{H971}}` is derived entirely from its role in the narrative of [[Isaiah 23:13]].
* **Symbol of Imperial Power:** The **tower** is built by the Assyrian `{{H804}}`, a major empire. Its construction is an expression of imperial might, capable of creating entire settlements for subject peoples.
* **Transient Human Works:** The verse presents a complete life cycle: a people that "was not," a founding, the setting up of **towers** and palaces, and then ruin. The tower stands as a monument to the impermanence of human political and architectural achievements.
* **Civilizing the Wilderness:** The towers are built for a people who were "them that dwell in the wilderness" `{{H6728}}`. These structures represent the establishment of a fortified, civil society in a previously untamed land.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H971}}` **bachîyn** is a term for a **tower** whose meaning is defined by its sole use in [[Isaiah 23:13]]. It is not just a building, but a symbol within a prophetic declaration. It represents the constructive power of an empire, the transformation of land, and the stark reality that what is built by human hands can just as quickly be brought to ruin. Its significance is locked into this powerful, concise narrative of creation and destruction.
TRV