### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **chabbâr**, represented by `{{H2271}}`, denotes a **partner** or **companion**. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the entire biblical text. Its meaning is derived from a root word signifying a partner.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H2271}}` is in the book of Job, in a question regarding the formidable Leviathan. The verse asks, "Shall the **companions** make a banquet of him? shall they part him among the merchants?" [[Job 41:6]]. In this context, **companions** refers to a group of associates, likely fishermen or traders, who would typically work together in a joint enterprise. The question highlights the impossibility of such a partnership ever succeeding in capturing and profiting from this mighty creature.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its only context illuminate its meaning:
* `{{H3739}}` **kârâh** (to purchase; buy, prepare): This word is used in the same verse to describe the banquet the companions would make. It can mean to prepare a meal [[Job 41:6]] or to purchase provisions, as seen when Israel was instructed to **buy** food and water [[Deuteronomy 2:6]].
* `{{H2673}}` **châtsâh** (to cut or split in two; to halve; divide): This verb describes the action of parting or dividing something. In the context of Job, it refers to dividing the Leviathan's carcass for trade [[Job 41:6]]. It is also used when Jacob **divided** his camp for safety [[Genesis 32:7]].
* `{{H3669}}` **Kᵉnaʻanîy** (a Kenaanite... merchant, trafficker): While often referring to the inhabitants of Kenaan [[Deuteronomy 7:1]], this word also carries the meaning of a merchant or trafficker. In [[Job 41:6]], it refers to the **merchants** who would buy the divided parts of the Leviathan.
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H2271}}` is derived entirely from its singular, powerful context in Job.
* **Partnership and Commerce:** The single use of `{{H2271}}` places it squarely in a commercial context, describing a group formed for a common business venture—the capture and sale of a great beast [[Job 41:6]].
* **Human Limitation:** The word is used within a rhetorical question designed to illustrate the power of the Leviathan and, by extension, its Creator. It shows that even the combined effort of a group of **companions** is utterly insufficient against such a creature, highlighting the limits of human strength and enterprise.
* **Association for a Purpose:** Unlike words that might imply deep friendship, **chabbâr** here suggests a practical association. These are individuals joined together for a specific task, emphasizing the functional nature of their relationship in the pursuit of a shared goal.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2271}}` **chabbâr** is a specific and seldom-used term for a **partner** or **companion**. Its singular appearance in scripture is powerful, used in Job to contrast the collaborative efforts of men with the untamable power of God's creation. It defines a relationship based on a shared commercial or practical goal, illustrating a partnership's inadequacy when faced with the immense and sovereign power of God.
TRV