What does the term 'Ichabod' signify?

The term 'Ichabod' holds significant weight in biblical context, primarily derived from the story of the Old Testament. It signifies "the glory has departed," which refers to the moment when the Ark of the Covenant was captured by the Philistines and the impact it had on the Israelites. This term embodies a profound sense of loss, specifically the absence of divine presence or favor.

When Phinehas' wife gave birth to a son shortly after the tragic news of the Ark's capture, she named him Ichabod as an expression of the deep despair felt in Israel, indicating that the glory of God had left the Israelites due to their sin and the loss of the Ark. This invocation of the term highlights the gravity of the situation — the glory of God, which was central to their identity and strength, was no longer with them.

The other choices introduce concepts that do not align with the historical or theological interpretation of 'Ichabod.' The correct answer encapsulates a fundamental moment of spiritual decline and loss for the community, emphasizing why this term resonates profoundly in discussions regarding divine presence and glory.