### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **chôbêl**, represented by `{{H2259}}`, serves as a specific term for a **pilot** or **shipmaster**. It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible. Derived from a root word associated with handling ropes, it signifies a skilled mariner with authority and responsibility for navigating a vessel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H2259}}` is used exclusively in maritime contexts. The **shipmaster** in Jonah confronts the sleeping prophet, urging him to call upon his God to prevent them from perishing [[Jonah 1:6]]. In Ezekiel's prophecy against Tyrus, the city's wise men are identified as its **pilots** [[Ezekiel 27:8]]. The complete downfall of Tyrus is illustrated through the loss of its key personnel, including the **pilots** who fall into the sea [[Ezekiel 27:27]], whose cry of distress shakes the land [[Ezekiel 27:28]], and who ultimately abandon their ships in ruin [[Ezekiel 27:29]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of maritime roles and authority:
* `{{H4419}}` **mallâch** (mariner): This term for a general **sailor** is used alongside `{{H2259}}` to distinguish the general crew from the skilled pilots, such as in the list of personnel lost in Tyrus's ruin [[Ezekiel 27:29]].
* `{{H7227}}` **rab** (captain, master): Meaning **captain** or **master**, this word is combined with `{{H2259}}` in the book of Jonah to form the title "shipmaster," emphasizing a position of high rank and command over the vessel [[Jonah 1:6]].
* `{{H7751}}` **shûwṭ** (mariner, rower): Defined as a **mariner** or **rower**, this word describes the foreign sailors who served Tyrus, working in concert with the city's own wise men who were its **pilots** `{{H2259}}` [[Ezekiel 27:8]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H2259}}` is tied to its role in narratives of divine judgment and human responsibility.
* **Leadership and Authority:** The **shipmaster** `{{H2259}}` in Jonah represents human authority confronting a crisis, taking command by waking Jonah and urging him to act [[Jonah 1:6]].
* **Symbol of Worldly Prowess:** In Ezekiel, the **pilots** `{{H2259}}` are equated with the "wise men" of Tyrus, symbolizing the peak of the city's worldly skill, pride, and maritime dominance [[Ezekiel 27:8]].
* **Indicator of Judgment:** The downfall of the **pilots** is a key element in the prophecy against Tyrus. Their demise and cry of anguish signify the complete collapse of the city's strength, leadership, and commercial empire [[Ezekiel 27:28]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2259}}` is a specialized term that points to a position of skill and command at sea. It is more than just a label for a sailor; it represents the pinnacle of maritime expertise and leadership within its biblical contexts. Through its use in Jonah and Ezekiel, the word **chôbêl** illustrates themes of human authority in the face of disaster and serves as a potent symbol for the pride and subsequent judgment of a great seafaring power.