Valley

Several distinct Hebrew words are translated "valley" in the Old Testament, reflecting the varied topography of the biblical lands. The term bik'ah denotes a broad plain between mountain ranges (Deuteronomy 8:7); 'emek describes a broad open valley ideal for agriculture and armies (the Valley of Jezreel, the Valley of Elah); nahal refers to a wadi or torrent valley, typically dry except in rainy season; and ge' or gai designates a narrow ravine or gorge. Each term carries distinct geographical and narrative associations throughout Scripture.

Valleys in the Bible function as places of encounter, conflict, and transformation. The Valley of Hinnom south of Jerusalem became the site of pagan child sacrifice and later a symbol of judgment. The Valley of the Shadow of Death in Psalm 23:4 evokes mortal danger through which God escorts his people. The Valley of Dry Bones in Ezekiel 37 becomes the setting for Israel's resurrection. Isaiah promises that every valley shall be exalted in the coming age of salvation (Isaiah 40:4), inverting the landscape as a sign of God making the rough places plain.