### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **cheber**, represented by `{{H2267}}`, carries a dual meaning derived from its root, `{{H2266}}` **châbar**, which means to join. **cheber** can refer to a **society** or **company**, but it is also used to denote a **spell** or **enchantment**. It appears **7 times** across **7 unique verses** in the Bible, illustrating the connection between association and spiritual influence.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H2267}}` is used to describe both social and occult groupings. In Hosea, it denotes a corrupt association, describing "the **company** of priests" who "murder in the way" [[Hosea 6:9]]. In contrast, the book of Proverbs uses it idiomatically to describe a "**wide** house," shared with a brawling woman [[Proverbs 21:9]]. The term is also a key feature in condemnations of pagan practices. It is listed among the acts forbidden by God, such as being a **charmer** [[Deuteronomy 18:11]], and is used to describe the **enchantments** of Babylon, which lead to its sudden judgment [[Isaiah 47:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the contexts in which **cheber** is found:
* `{{H2266}}` **châbar**: The root word, meaning **to join, have fellowship with, or fascinate**. It underscores the theme of association, as when the psalmist asks if the "throne of iniquity" can **have fellowship** with God [[Psalms 94:20]].
* `{{H3785}}` **kesheph**: Meaning **sorcery** or **witchcraft**, this word often appears alongside `{{H2267}}`. In the judgment against Babylon, its downfall is attributed to "the multitude of thy **sorceries**, and for the great abundance of thine **enchantments**" [[Isaiah 47:9]].
* `{{H3049}}` **yiddᵉʻônîy**: This term for a **wizard** appears in the same list of prohibitions as a **charmer** `{{H2267}}`, identifying a category of forbidden spiritual practitioners [[Deuteronomy 18:11]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2267}}` is primarily cautionary, highlighting the dangers of wrongful association and forbidden spiritual practices.
* **Prohibition of the Occult:** The word is explicitly included in the list of forbidden practices in the Law. A **charmer** `{{H2267}}` is condemned alongside those who consult familiar spirits and wizards, establishing a clear boundary against occultism [[Deuteronomy 18:11]].
* **Corrupting Influence of Company:** Whether used literally as a **company** of corrupt priests [[Hosea 6:9]] or in the context of occult spells, the word points to the negative power of association. It links physical fellowship with spiritual and moral decay.
* **The Futility of False Worship:** In Isaiah, Babylon is challenged to "Stand now with thine **enchantments**" to see if they can profit [[Isaiah 47:12]]. This demonstrates that reliance on such practices is a source of false security that ultimately fails under divine judgment.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2267}}` **cheber** is a multifaceted term that bridges the concepts of social and spiritual association. Derived from the root for "to join," it can signify a physical **company** or, more frequently, a forbidden magical **enchantment**. Its usage in Scripture serves as a consistent warning against corrupting fellowship and the occult practices that lead to judgment, underscoring the spiritual dangers of being joined to the wrong things.
TRV