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.
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.
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.
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.
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