The Hebrew word Gârêb, represented by H1619, is a proper name meaning scabby. It appears 3 times in 3 unique verses. The name is used to identify both an Israelite and a hill located near Jerusalem.
In the biblical narrative, H1619 is used in two distinct contexts. First, it identifies a person named Gareb, who is described as an Ithrite (2 Samuel 23:38, 1 Chronicles 11:40). In both instances, he is listed alongside Ira, another Ithrite. Second, the name is used for a geographical location, the hill Gareb, which is mentioned in a prophecy about the restoration of Jerusalem. A measuring line is described as going forth upon this hill as part of defining the city's future boundaries Jeremiah 31:39.
Several related words provide context for the use of Gareb:
- H1389 gibʻâh (hill): A hillock or little hill. This term is used to identify the geographical location of Gareb Jeremiah 31:39. Elsewhere, it is used prophetically, stating that the mountain of the LORD's house will be exalted above the hills Isaiah 2:2.
- H3505 Yithrîy (Ithrite): A descendant of Jether. This identifies the lineage of the man named Gareb 2 Samuel 23:38. The term also appears in a list of the families of Kirjathjearim 1 Chronicles 2:53.
- H3318 yâtsâʼ (to go forth): A versatile verb meaning to go out or proceed. In the context of the hill Gareb, it describes how a measuring line will go forth to mark the boundaries of a restored Jerusalem Jeremiah 31:39. It is also used to describe God's word that goeth forth from His mouth Isaiah 55:11.
The significance of H1619 is tied directly to its specific narrative roles.
- Personal Identity: As a person, Gareb is identified by his lineage as an Ithrite H3505, alongside his contemporary Ira (2 Samuel 23:38, 1 Chronicles 11:40). This places him within a specific family group of Israel.
- Prophetic Landmark: As a place, the hill Gareb serves as a key landmark in a prophecy of Jerusalem's future restoration and expansion. Its inclusion in the path of the measuring line H6957 signifies its role in God's defined and promised boundaries for His people Jeremiah 31:39.
- Dual Application: The use of Gareb as both a personal name and a place name illustrates how names in scripture can carry significance across different contexts, linking people and the land in the biblical record.
In summary, H1619 Gârêb is a specific name used for both a person and a place. While appearing only three times, its usage is precise. It identifies Gareb the Ithrite within the historical records of Israel (2 Samuel 23:38, 1 Chronicles 11:40) and establishes the hill of Gareb as a boundary marker in a significant prophecy of Jerusalem's restoration Jeremiah 31:39. The name connects the identity of an individual with the geography of God's covenant promises.
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