### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **bachan**, represented by `{{H975}}`, means **tower** or **watch-tower**. The term is derived from a root suggesting the act of keeping a look-out. It is an exceptionally rare word, appearing only **1 time** in a single verse in the entire Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H975}}` is found in a prophecy of judgment and desolation in [[Isaiah 32:14]]. The verse describes a future state where the bustling city will be abandoned, stating that "the forts and **towers** shall be for dens for ever, a joy of wild asses, a pasture of flocks". In this context, the **tower** is listed alongside other key urban structures like palaces `{{H759}}` and forts `{{H6076}}` that will fall into ruin, becoming uninhabitable for humans and instead serving as a home for wild animals.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several words in its immediate context clarify the meaning of `{{H975}}`:
* `{{H6076}}` **ʻôphel** (fort, strong hold, tower): This word appears directly beside **bachan** in [[Isaiah 32:14]], forming a parallel that emphasizes the defensive and elevated structures of the city that will be forsaken.
* `{{H759}}` **ʼarmôwn** (castle, palace): Mentioned earlier in the same verse, these citadels will also be forsaken, highlighting that all places of human power and elevation will be brought low [[Isaiah 32:14]].
* `{{H4631}}` **mᵉʻârâh** (cave, den, hole): This word describes the future state of the **tower**, showing a complete reversal of its purpose from a place of human watchfulness to a shelter for animals [[Isaiah 32:14]].
* `{{H5892}}` **ʻîyr** (city, town): The **tower** is a feature of the **city**, and its abandonment is part of the larger desolation of the entire urban center [[Isaiah 32:14]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H975}}` is derived entirely from its singular, powerful context of prophetic judgment.
* **Symbol of Forsaken Strength:** As a watch-tower, the **bachan** represents human security, vigilance, and might. Its transformation into a den for wild asses symbolizes the complete failure and abandonment of human-made defenses when God's judgment comes [[Isaiah 32:14]].
* **Prophetic Reversal:** The word is used to paint a stark picture of reversal. What was once built up and occupied by a "multitude of the city" `{{H1995}}` will be left desolate and become a "pasture of flocks" `{{H4829}}`, showing that civilization's permanence is subject to divine will [[Isaiah 32:14]].
* **Return to Wilderness:** The imagery of the **tower** becoming a "joy of wild asses" `{{H6501}}` underscores a theme where the land returns to a wild, untamed state, erasing the marks of a society that has been judged.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H975}}` **bachan** is a precise and rare term for a **tower** or watch-tower. Its only scriptural use in [[Isaiah 32:14]] makes it a potent symbol of judgment. It illustrates how a structure of human pride and security can be overturned by divine decree, becoming a desolate ruin and a stark monument to the transient nature of a forsaken city.
TRV