### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **chăbereth**, represented by `{{H2278}}`, means **companion** or **consort**. This rare term appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Though its usage is singular, it provides a profound definition of a wife within a sacred, binding relationship.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H2278}}` is in [[Malachi 2:14]]. The verse is part of a divine rebuke where the LORD `{{H3068}}` acts as a witness `{{H5749}}` against men who have dealt treacherously `{{H898}}` with the wife `{{H802}}` of their youth `{{H5271}}`. The text poses a question, "Wherefore?" and answers that despite the betrayal, "she is thy **companion** `{{H2278}}`, and the wife of thy covenant `{{H1285}}`." This usage emphasizes the deep, personal nature of the marital bond that has been violated.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context illuminate the meaning of **chăbereth**:
* `{{H802}}` **'ishshâh** (a woman... wife): This word is used in parallel to identify the **companion** specifically as a **wife** [[Malachi 2:14]], establishing the marital context of the relationship.
* `{{H1285}}` **bᵉrîyth** (a compact... covenant): The **companion** is explicitly called "the wife of thy **covenant**" [[Malachi 2:14]]. This connects the idea of companionship directly to a sacred and binding agreement that has been profaned.
* `{{H898}}` **bâgad** (to act covertly... deal treacherously): This term defines the action committed against the **companion**. To **deal treacherously** with one's companion is to violate the trust and faithfulness inherent in such a divinely witnessed bond [[Malachi 2:14]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2278}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful use.
* **Sacred Partnership:** By designating a wife as a **companion**, the term elevates the marital relationship beyond a legal arrangement to a partnership. God Himself is presented as the **witness** `{{H5749}}` to this bond, underscoring its sacredness [[Malachi 2:14]].
* **Covenantal Bond:** The word is inseparable from **covenant** `{{H1285}}`. This connection frames marriage as a solemn promise where the wife is a partner, or **companion**, in that covenant. Betrayal is therefore not just an emotional slight but a violation of a sacred compact.
* **Divine Justice:** The context of `{{H2278}}` is a judgment from the LORD `{{H3068}}` against those who **deal treacherously** `{{H898}}`. This shows that marital faithfulness to one's **companion** is a matter of divine concern, and infidelity is an offense that God observes and holds to account.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{H2278}}` is one of the rarest words in the biblical lexicon, its singular appearance offers a profound and foundational understanding of marriage. It defines the wife not merely by her role but by her relationship as a **companion** and a partner in a sacred **covenant**. This single verse [[Malachi 2:14]] uses the term to condemn faithlessness and affirm the deep, personal, and divinely witnessed nature of the marital bond.
TRV