or חֶבְרֹנִי; patronymically from חֶבְרוֹן; Chebronite (collectively), an inhabitant of Chebron; Hebronites.
Transliteration:Chebrôwnîy
Pronunciation:kheb-ro-nee'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term חֶבְרוֹנִי (Chebrôwnîy, `{{H2276}}`) is a gentil noun, derived patronymically from the geographical name חֶבְרוֹן (Chebrôwn, `{{H2275}}`), which refers to the ancient city of Hebron. Primarily, Chebrôwnîy denotes an "inhabitant of Hebron" or, more specifically in its biblical usage, a member of the "Hebronites" as a collective group. While its etymological root points to a geographical origin, its semantic range in the biblical text is almost exclusively applied to a specific family or clan within the tribe of Levi, distinguishing them by this ancestral connection to Hebron. Thus, it functions as a tribal designation, identifying a particular lineage rather than merely any resident of the city.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The occurrences of חֶבְרוֹנִי (Chebrôwnîy, `{{H2276}}`) in the Hebrew Bible are concentrated within the books of Numbers and 1 Chronicles, consistently referring to a specific family line within the Levites. They are identified as a branch of the Kohathites, one of the three primary divisions of the tribe of Levi.
In [[Numbers 3:27]], the "family of the Hebronites" (מִשְׁפַּחַת הַחֶבְרֹנִי) is listed among the four families of the Kohathites, alongside the Amramites, Izharites, and Uzzielites. Their role, as part of the Kohathites, was initially to bear the most sacred articles of the tabernacle, including the Ark of the Covenant, the table, the lampstand, the altars, and the holy vessels, when Israel was on the move ([[Numbers 3:31]]). This grave responsibility underscored their unique position in Israel's worship. The census in [[Numbers 26:58]] reiterates their inclusion among the Levitical families, further solidifying their identity as a distinct lineage.
Later, in 1 Chronicles, the Hebronites are depicted in a more administrative and logistical capacity, reflecting the evolving nature of Levitical service as Israel settled in the land and the temple replaced the tabernacle. [[1 Chronicles 23:19]] again lists the Hebronites as sons of Kohath through Jeriah, their chief. Their duties expanded beyond carrying sacred objects to include roles as officers, judges, and treasurers. [[1 Chronicles 26:23]] mentions them as gatekeepers and treasurers, specifically noting their prominence under Jeriah. [[1 Chronicles 26:30]] and [[1 Chronicles 26:31]] record their significant administrative responsibilities "over the affairs of the Lord and the service of the king" on both sides of the Jordan, demonstrating their widespread influence and trusted position within the Israelite polity. This indicates a shift from direct sacred service to broader administrative and judicial roles within the Levitical framework.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **חֶבְרוֹן (Chebrôwn, `{{H2275}}`):** The city of Hebron itself, from which the name "Hebronite" derives. Hebron holds immense significance as a burial place of the patriarchs (Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Sarah, Rebekah, Leah) and as David's first capital. It was also designated as one of the cities of refuge.
* **קְהָתִי (Qehathiy, `{{H6955}}`):** The Kohathites, the larger Levitical clan to which the Hebronites belonged. The Kohathites were uniquely tasked with carrying the most holy items of the tabernacle.
* **לֵוִי (Leviy, `{{H3878}}`):** The tribe of Levi, set apart for service to the Lord. The Hebronites were a priestly lineage within this tribe, dedicated to the upkeep and administration of the sanctuary and, later, the temple.
* **מִשְׁפַּחַת (mishpachath):** "Family" or "clan," a term often used in conjunction with "Hebronite" to denote a specific lineage or subdivision within a larger tribal structure.
* **מִשְׁמֶרֶת (mishmereth):** "Charge" or "duty," often associated with the specific responsibilities entrusted to the Levitical families, including the Hebronites.
### Theological Significance
The Hebronites, as a specific Levitical family, embody several key theological principles. Their very existence and assigned duties underscore God's meticulous ordering and provision for the worship life of Israel. Their role as Kohathites initially involved the sacred task of transporting the holy objects of the tabernacle, signifying the profound reverence due to God's presence and the careful handling of divine things. This highlights the concept of divine appointment and the importance of consecrated service.
Their later administrative roles in 1 Chronicles demonstrate the adaptability and breadth of Levitical service, extending beyond direct cultic duties to encompass wider societal responsibilities. This illustrates God's design for order, justice, and effective governance within His covenant community, with the Levites playing a crucial role in maintaining both spiritual and civil integrity. The persistence of their lineage and their continued service across generations attest to the enduring nature of God's covenant with Levi and the faithfulness expected of those called to serve Him. While their name connects them to the ancient city of Hebron, their primary theological significance lies in their identity as a divinely appointed family dedicated to the Lord's service, reflecting the broader theme of separation unto God and the importance of ordered worship and community life.
### Summary
The term חֶבְרוֹנִי (Chebrôwnîy, `{{H2276}}`) designates a specific family or clan, the "Hebronites," derived patronymically from the city of Hebron (`{{H2275}}`). In the biblical narrative, particularly in Numbers and 1 Chronicles, the Hebronites are consistently identified as a significant branch of the Kohathite Levites. Their responsibilities evolved from the sacred task of carrying the tabernacle's holy vessels during the wilderness wanderings to later administrative, judicial, and treasury roles in the settled land. Their prominence underscores God's detailed ordering of His people and their service, reflecting themes of divine appointment, consecrated duty, and the importance of spiritual and administrative oversight within the covenant community.
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