from חָבַר; an associate; companion, fellow, knit together.
Transliteration:châbêr
Pronunciation:khaw-bare'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H2270}}` (חָבֵר, *châbêr*) is derived from the root `{{H2266}}` (חָבַר, *chabar*), which fundamentally means "to join, to unite, to bind together." As such, `{{H2270}}` primarily denotes an "associate," "companion," or "fellow"—one who is joined or connected to another. The semantic range extends to encompass various forms of association: from intimate friendship and partnership to a broader sense of community or collective. Intriguingly, it can also refer to a "charmer" or "enchanter," particularly in the sense of one who "binds" others through spells or incantations, thus revealing a dual potential for the concept of "binding"—either in positive fellowship or manipulative control. The underlying sense is always one of close connection or integration, whether physical, social, or mystical.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The occurrences of `{{H2270}}` in the Hebrew Bible illustrate its diverse applications:
* In a negative context, `{{H2270}}` appears in [[Deuteronomy 18:11]] as a "charmer" or "one who casts spells," listed among detestable practices that separate Israel from the nations. This highlights the dark side of "binding"—manipulation rather than genuine fellowship.
* [[Judges 20:11]] describes the men of Israel gathering against Gibeah, where they are "knit together" (חָבֵר) as one man. Here, `{{H2270}}` functions adjectivally, emphasizing their unified resolve and solidarity in a collective action.
* [[Psalm 119:63]] presents a positive personal association: "I am a companion (חָבֵר) of all them that fear thee, and of them that keep thy precepts." This verse underscores the psalmist's intentional choice of fellowship with the godly, highlighting shared values and devotion.
* [[Proverbs 28:24]] uses `{{H2270}}` to describe a negative association: "Whoso robbeth his father or his mother, and saith, It is no transgression; the same is the companion (חָבֵר) of a destroyer." This proverb warns against the corrupting influence of evil companionship, where shared actions lead to shared guilt.
* [[Hosea 6:9]] speaks of "the company (חָבֵר) of priests" who murder on the way. Here, `{{H2270}}` refers to a collective group or band, emphasizing their corporate responsibility in transgression.
* One of the most profound uses is found in [[Malachi 2:14]], where the wife is described as "thy companion (חֲבֶרְתֶּךָ, the feminine form of `{{H2270}}`), and the wife of thy covenant." This usage elevates the marital relationship to a sacred companionship, bound by divine covenant, emphasizing mutual commitment and fidelity.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field surrounding `{{H2270}}` is rich with terms related to connection and community. The root `{{H2266}}` (חָבַר, *chabar*) itself is paramount, signifying the act of joining, uniting, or binding. Other related terms include:
* `{{H2273}}` (חֶבְרָה, *chebrah*): Denotes an "association," "company," or "fellowship," often referring to a collective group.
* `{{H2271}}` (חֲבֻרָה, *chaburah*): Typically refers to a "stripe" or "wound," possibly stemming from the idea of a "binding" or "joining" mark on the skin, or a blow that "joins" with the body.
* Concepts of "covenant" (בְּרִית, *bᵉrît*), "friendship" (רֵעַ, *rêaʿ*), and "unity" (יַחַד, *yaḥad*) are intrinsically linked to the positive dimensions of `{{H2270}}`. The word highlights the importance of chosen relationships and the nature of communal bonds, whether familial, social, or spiritual.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H2270}}` is multifaceted, touching upon themes of relationship, community, and moral conduct.
1. **Covenantal Fidelity:** The use of `{{H2270}}` in [[Malachi 2:14]] to describe the wife as a "companion of the covenant" underscores the sacred and binding nature of marriage. It portrays marriage not merely as a social contract but as a divine institution marked by deep companionship and an enduring bond, mirroring God's own covenant faithfulness.
2. **Unity and Solidarity:** The description of Israel as "knit together" in [[Judges 20:11]] illustrates the ideal of corporate unity among God's people. This unity, born of shared purpose and divine calling, is essential for effective action and witness.
3. **The Importance of Association:** `{{H2270}}` highlights the profound impact of one's chosen companions. [[Psalm 119:63]] exemplifies the wisdom of associating with those who fear God and adhere to His commands, recognizing that fellowship shapes character and spiritual trajectory. Conversely, [[Proverbs 28:24]] serves as a stark warning against associations with the wicked, emphasizing the corrupting power of such companionship.
4. **Distinction from Occult Practices:** The prohibition against "charmers" in [[Deuteronomy 18:11]] reveals God's absolute rejection of practices that seek to "bind" or manipulate through sorcery. This contrasts sharply with the righteous "binding" of covenant and fellowship, emphasizing God's demand for genuine relationship over occult control.
### Summary
The Hebrew word `{{H2270}}` (חָבֵר, *châbêr*) encapsulates the concept of being "joined" or "bound together," primarily signifying a "companion," "associate," or "fellow." Its meaning extends from intimate personal relationships, notably the covenantal bond of marriage, to broader communal unity among God's people. While predominantly conveying positive notions of fellowship, shared purpose, and mutual commitment, the term also carries a negative connotation when applied to those who "bind" others through sorcery or when describing wicked associations. Thus, `{{H2270}}` underscores the profound impact of our relationships—whether they lead to sacred covenant and righteous community or to corrupting influence and forbidden practices. It serves as a reminder of the divine value placed on true companionship and the critical importance of discerning our alliances.
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