### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Chôbâb**, represented by `{{H2246}}`, means **cherished**. It appears **2 times** in **2 unique verses** of the Bible. The word is used as a proper name, specifically identifying **Chobab, father-in-law of Moses**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H2246}}` appears at a pivotal moment in Israel's journey. In [[Numbers 10:29]], Moses `{{H4872}}` invites **Hobab**, his father-in-law, to come `{{H3212}}` with the Israelites, saying, "we will do thee good `{{H2895}}`: for the LORD `{{H3068}}` hath spoken good `{{H2896}}` concerning Israel." This establishes Hobab's identity in relation to Moses and as a recipient of a divine promise. Later, in [[Judges 4:11]], his legacy is noted through his descendants, identifying Heber the Kenite as being "of the children of **Hobab** the father in law of Moses `{{H4872}}`."
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context surrounding **Chôbâb**:
* `{{H4872}}` **Môsheh** (Moses): The Israelite lawgiver whose relationship with **Chôbâb** as his father-in-law defines both occurrences of the name ([[Numbers 10:29]], [[Judges 4:11]]).
* `{{H3212}}` **yâlak** (to walk, come): This is the root of the verb used for the invitation Moses `{{H4872}}` extends to **Chôbâb**: "come `{{H3212}}` thou with us" [[Numbers 10:29]], representing a call to join Israel's journey.
* `{{H2895}}` **ṭôwb** (to do good): This verb forms the core of Moses's promise to **Chôbâb**, linking the welfare of **Chôbâb** to the good that the LORD `{{H3068}}` has planned for Israel [[Numbers 10:29]].
* `{{H3068}}` **Yᵉhôvâh** (the Lord): The ultimate source of the promise offered to **Chôbâb**. It is because the **LORD** has spoken good `{{H2896}}` that Moses can extend the invitation with confidence [[Numbers 10:29]].
### Theological Significance
The story of `{{H2246}}` carries significant thematic weight concerning inclusion and divine promises.
* **An Invitation to Covenant:** The interaction in [[Numbers 10:29]] is more than a family request; it is an invitation for someone outside of the direct Israelite lineage to join the people of God and share in their promised future.
* **The Extension of God's Goodness:** Moses's promise to "do thee good" `{{H2895}}` is based on the goodness the **LORD** `{{H3068}}` has already promised to Israel. This illustrates the principle that God's blessings are to be shared.
* **A Lasting Legacy:** The mention of "the children of **Hobab**" in [[Judges 4:11]] confirms that his family line became integrated with the history of Israel, showing the long-term impact of his connection to God's people.
### Summary
In summary, **Chôbâb** `{{H2246}}` is not merely a historical footnote. As a figure who is "cherished," he stands at a crossroads, presented with an offer to join God's people on their journey. His identity is inseparable from his relationship to Moses `{{H4872}}` and the divine promise of goodness from the **LORD** `{{H3068}}`. The two verses in which he is mentioned encapsulate a powerful theme of invitation, shared blessing, and an enduring legacy within the nation of Israel.
TRV