from בֵּן and חוּר; son of Chur; Ben-Chur, an Israelite; the son of Hur.
Transliteration:Ben-Chûwr
Pronunciation:ben-khoor'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term H1133 (בֶּן־חוּר, Ben-Chûwr) is a proper noun, a patronymic literally meaning "son of Hur." It is derived from the Hebrew word בֵּן (ben, `{{H1121}}`), meaning "son" or "child," and the personal name חוּר (Chur/Hur, `{{H2354}}`). As a proper noun, its semantic range is limited to identifying a specific individual through his paternal lineage. It does not carry a broader conceptual meaning beyond its literal designation of a person's identity within a family structure. The name itself signifies a direct genealogical link, indicating the individual's parentage rather than an inherent quality or characteristic.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Ben-Chur appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in the Book of Kings.
* [[1 Kings 4:8]]: "And these are the officers whom Solomon had: ... Ben-Hur, in the hill country of Ephraim."
This verse is part of a detailed list of King Solomon's twelve district governors, each responsible for providing provisions for the royal household for one month of the year. Ben-Chur is identified as the governor over the hill country of Ephraim, a significant and strategically important region within the kingdom. His inclusion in this list underscores his prominent position within Solomon's administrative structure. The use of a patronymic ("son of Hur") as his primary identifier is a common practice in biblical texts, highlighting the importance of family lineage and paternal identity in ancient Israelite society. While the text does not provide further details about Ben-Chur's life or actions, his role as a royal administrator signifies a position of trust and responsibility in managing the logistical and economic affairs of the kingdom during a period of immense prosperity and organization under Solomon's reign.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary components of H1133 are בֵּן (ben, `{{H1121}}`), meaning "son," and חוּר (Chur/Hur, `{{H2354}}`), the name of the father.
* **בֵּן (ben, `{{H1121}}`):** This foundational Hebrew word for "son" or "child" is crucial for understanding the concept of lineage, inheritance, and identity in Israelite society. Its presence in a patronymic like Ben-Chur emphasizes the individual's connection to his father's house.
* **חוּר (Chur/Hur, `{{H2354}}`):** While this is the name of the father, the text does not explicitly link this particular Hur to other prominent biblical figures named Hur, such as the Hur who supported Moses' hands during battle ([[Exodus 17:10]]) or the grandfather of Bezalel, the chief craftsman of the Tabernacle ([[Exodus 31:2]]). The lack of further qualification suggests that this Hur may have been a local notable whose identity was well-known within the region of Ephraim but not necessarily a figure of broader national renown.
Related concepts include:
* **Patronymics:** The practice of identifying individuals by their father's name was a widespread naming convention in ancient Near Eastern cultures, including Israel. It served to establish identity, lineage, and social standing.
* **Royal Administration:** Ben-Chur's role highlights the sophisticated bureaucratic system developed during Solomon's reign, which was essential for managing the kingdom's resources and maintaining its extensive infrastructure.
* **Provisional System:** The system of district governors providing monthly provisions for the king's household illustrates the economic organization and logistical demands of supporting a large royal court.
### Theological Significance
While Ben-Chur is not a central figure in biblical theology, his brief mention carries indirect theological significance within the broader narrative of Israel's history.
* **Divine Order and Prosperity:** The detailed account of Solomon's administration, including figures like Ben-Chur, reflects a period of divinely-blessed peace, prosperity, and organizational prowess in Israel. This era is often viewed as a fulfillment of God's covenant promises to David, where the kingdom experiences stability and abundance under a wise ruler. The meticulous recording of administrative details, even seemingly minor ones, underscores the Bible's commitment to historical accuracy and its portrayal of how God's work unfolds through both grand miracles and the diligent, often unseen, efforts of individuals in various societal roles.
* **Human Responsibility in Governance:** Ben-Chur's position as a district governor exemplifies human responsibility in stewardship and administration. While God establishes the kingdom and grants wisdom, human agents are called to manage its affairs faithfully. This reflects the principle that human leadership, when aligned with divine wisdom, contributes to the flourishing of society.
* **The Value of Every Role:** The inclusion of Ben-Chur, a seemingly minor character, reminds us that all roles within God's larger plan are significant. His administrative service, though not directly spiritual in nature, was crucial for the functioning of the kingdom that was central to God's covenant with Israel. It emphasizes that faithful service in any sphere contributes to the divine purposes.
### Summary
H1133 (בֶּן־חוּר, Ben-Chûwr) is a Hebrew proper noun meaning "son of Hur." It identifies one of King Solomon's twelve district governors, specifically the one responsible for the hill country of Ephraim, as recorded in [[1 Kings 4:8]]. This patronymic highlights the common ancient Israelite practice of identifying individuals through their paternal lineage. Ben-Chur's inclusion in the biblical record, though brief, provides insight into the sophisticated administrative structure of Solomon's kingdom and the importance of organized governance. Theologically, his presence underscores the divinely-ordained order and prosperity of Solomon's reign, the significance of human responsibility in stewardship, and the value of all roles, however seemingly minor, within the unfolding of God's plan for His people.
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