גּוּר (gur)
gur
Gur
N:N--LQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N--L
Word Overview
The Hebrew noun gur, appearing only once in Scripture at 2 Kings 9:27, refers to a specific location known as "Gur." The name itself derives from a root meaning "to sojourn" or "to dwell as a stranger," suggesting a place associated with temporary residence or migration rather than permanent settlement.
In its sole biblical occurrence, this site serves as the backdrop for a pivotal moment in the reign of King Ahaziah. After witnessing Jehu’s anointing and the overthrow of his family’s dynasty, Ahaziah flees Jerusalem but is struck down at Gur. The text does not elaborate on the geography of this place, leaving its exact location unknown to modern scholars.
Because the word appears exclusively here, it offers no broader lexical range for theological reflection. Its significance lies entirely in its narrative function: marking the end of Ahaziah’s flight and the consolidation of Jehu’s power. The name itself hints at the transient nature of royal authority, as a king who was once powerful ends his days in a place named for sojourners.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
King Ahaziah’s story ends abruptly at a place called Gur. The name suggests a spot for travelers or those passing through, not a permanent home. In that single moment of flight, we see how quickly human power can vanish. What seemed solid and secure turned out to be fragile.
This reminds us that our own security does not rest in earthly positions or safety. When life feels unstable, we are not alone in our uncertainty. The Bible shows us that even kings cannot hold on to their strength forever. Our hope is anchored in something far more enduring than any political dynasty or personal achievement.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Gur1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- גוּר֙1×
Key Verses
-
II Kings 9:27
But when Ahaziah the king of Judah saw this, he fled by the way of the garden house. Jehu followed after him, and said, “Strike him also in the chariot!” They struck him at the ascent of Gur, which is by Ibleam. He fled to Megiddo, and died there.
This verse marks the exact location where Ahaziah’s attempt to escape Jehu’s judgment fails, highlighting the suddenness of divine justice.