### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word chăbereth (`{{H2278}}`) is the feminine form of chaber (`{{H2270}}`), which signifies an "associate," "companion," or "friend." As a feminine noun, chăbereth specifically denotes a female companion, associate, or consort. Its core meaning revolves around the concept of close relationship, partnership, or intimate association, particularly when referring to a female individual. The nuance of "consort" suggests a deeply intertwined relationship, often implying a partner in a shared life or destiny.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word chăbereth (`{{H2278}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in [[Malachi 2:14]]. In this passage, the prophet Malachi addresses the unfaithfulness of Israelite men who are divorcing their wives. The full phrase used is "your companion and the wife of your covenant" (חֲבֶרְתְּךָ וְאֵשֶׁת בְּרִיתֶךָ). The term chăbereth here is employed to emphasize the profound bond and partnership that should exist within a marriage. It highlights the wife's status not merely as a legal spouse, but as an intimate and trusted associate, a partner in life's journey, and crucially, a partner within a covenant relationship established before God. The pairing of chăbereth with "wife of your covenant" underscores the sacredness and relational depth of the marital bond, portraying it as a companionship rooted in a divinely witnessed agreement.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **chaber (`{{H2270}}`):** This is the masculine counterpart of chăbereth, meaning "companion," "friend," or "associate." The underlying root חבר (ch-b-r) fundamentally conveys the idea of joining, uniting, or being bound together. Other derivatives from this root include chibbur (`{{H2274}}`, "joining," "union") and cheber (`{{H2267}}`, "company," "band").
* **'ishshah (`{{H802}}`):** This is the common Hebrew word for "woman" or "wife." While 'ishshah is the general term for a female spouse, chăbereth specifically emphasizes the relational aspect of companionship and partnership within the marriage. The use of both terms in [[Malachi 2:14]] ("your companion and the wife of your covenant") elevates the wife's status beyond mere legal spouse to a cherished and intimate partner.
* **berith (`{{H1285}}`):** Meaning "covenant," this word is critical to understanding the full weight of the phrase "wife of your covenant." It links the marital bond directly to a sacred, God-witnessed agreement, reinforcing the permanence and sanctity of the relationship in contrast to the casual abandonment condemned by Malachi.
* **Biblical understanding of marriage:** The concept of marriage as a profound union (e.g., [[Genesis 2:24]] "one flesh") and an intimate partnership is strongly reinforced by the term chăbereth. It reflects the divine ideal of mutual companionship, support, and faithfulness within the marital bond.
### Theological Significance
The singular occurrence of chăbereth in [[Malachi 2:14]] carries profound theological weight, particularly concerning the sanctity and nature of marriage. By calling the wife a "companion" (chăbereth) and "the wife of your covenant," Malachi elevates the marital relationship to a sacred, covenantal status, witnessed and upheld by God Himself. This directly challenges the prevailing practice of easy divorce and unfaithfulness. The term implies that the wife is not merely a possession or a means to an end, but a partner with whom one shares life, intimacy, and a solemn commitment before God. This highlights God's deep concern for justice and faithfulness within human relationships, especially those established by covenant. Unfaithfulness to one's chăbereth is depicted as an act of treachery against God, who was a witness to the marital covenant ([[Malachi 2:14]]). It underscores the divine expectation of loyalty, respect, and enduring companionship within marriage, reflecting, in a human sphere, the faithfulness God expects from His covenant people.
### Summary
The Hebrew word chăbereth (`{{H2278}}`) is the feminine form of chaber (`{{H2270}}`), signifying a "female companion" or "consort." Its sole biblical appearance in [[Malachi 2:14]] is profoundly significant, where it describes the wife as "your companion and the wife of your covenant." This usage powerfully emphasizes the sacred, covenantal nature of marriage, portraying the wife not merely as a spouse but as an intimate, cherished partner in a relationship witnessed and upheld by God. chăbereth underscores God's demand for faithfulness and justice within the marital bond, highlighting the ideal of enduring companionship and mutual commitment that should characterize this foundational human relationship. The term serves as a potent reminder of the deep relational and theological implications of marital fidelity.
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