feminine active participle of חָבַר; a joint; which coupleth, coupling.
Transliteration:chôbereth
Pronunciation:kho-beh'-reth
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term חֹבֶרֶת (chôbereth, `{{H2279}}`) is a feminine active participle derived from the verbal root חָבַר (chabar, `{{H2266}}`), meaning "to join, unite, tie, or bind together." As a participle, chôbereth describes something that actively performs the action of joining or serves as the means by which joining occurs. Its core meaning thus denotes "a joint," "that which couples," or a "coupling piece." The word emphasizes the function of connecting distinct elements to form a unified whole. It implies a deliberate and functional link, essential for the cohesion and integrity of a larger structure.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term חֹבֶרֶת (chôbereth, `{{H2279}}`) appears exclusively in the book of Exodus, specifically within the detailed instructions and subsequent construction accounts of the Tabernacle. Its occurrences are concentrated in chapters 26 and 36:
* [[Exodus 26:4]]: Describes the "loops" (לֻלְאֹת, lul'a'ot) that are to be made on the edge of the first set of curtains for the Tabernacle. These loops are explicitly called חֹבֶרֶת (chôbereth), indicating their function as coupling agents.
* [[Exodus 26:5]]: Specifies that fifty such "loops" (chôbereth) are to be made on the edge of each set of curtains, designed to align perfectly with each other.
* [[Exodus 26:10]]: Refers to the "loops" (chôbereth) to be made on the edge of the curtains for the tent covering (goats' hair), again highlighting their role in joining.
* [[Exodus 26:11]]: Mentions the "clasps" (קְרָסִים, qerasim) which are to be inserted into these חֹבֶרֶת (chôbereth) loops, effectively "coupling" (וְחִבַּרְתָּ, vechibbartā, from the same root `{{H2266}}`) the curtains together so that the Tabernacle becomes "one."
* [[Exodus 36:11]], [[Exodus 36:12]], [[Exodus 36:17]], [[Exodus 36:18]]: These verses in chapter 36 recount the actual making of these loops and clasps according to the divine instructions, reiterating the precise role of חֹבֶרֶת (chôbereth) in creating the unified structure of the Tabernacle.
In all these contexts, chôbereth is a critical component for the physical assembly of the Tabernacle, ensuring that its various curtains and coverings are seamlessly joined. Without these "coupling" elements, the Tabernacle would exist as disparate pieces rather than a single, coherent dwelling place for God. The meticulous detail in the divine instructions underscores the importance of these seemingly minor parts for the overall integrity and unity of the sacred structure.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct linguistic relation to חֹבֶרֶת (chôbereth, `{{H2279}}`) is its root verb חָבַר (chabar, `{{H2266}}`), which carries the core meaning of "to join, unite, or associate." This root gives rise to several other significant Hebrew words:
* חֶבֶר (cheber, `{{H2271}}`): Can refer to a "company" or "association," emphasizing social unity, or even "a charm/spell," indicating a binding or joining through magical means.
* חָבֵר (chaber, `{{H2270}}`): Means "companion," "associate," or "fellow," denoting one who is joined with another in relationship or purpose.
* חִבּוּר (chibbur, not a Strong's entry but a related noun): Implies a joining or connection.
Conceptually, chôbereth is intrinsically linked to ideas of:
* **Unity and Cohesion:** It is the physical manifestation of bringing disparate parts into a single, functional whole.
* **Integrity and Stability:** The joints ensure the structure's soundness and ability to stand firm.
* **Divine Design:** The very existence of these specific coupling elements points to God's precise and intentional blueprint for His dwelling place.
* **Assembly and Construction:** It highlights the process of building and the necessity of proper connections.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of חֹבֶרֶת (chôbereth, `{{H2279}}`) transcends its literal architectural function in the Tabernacle. The Tabernacle itself served as a profound theological symbol, representing God's presence among His people and the ordered nature of His relationship with them.
1. **Divine Order and Perfection:** The meticulous instructions for the Tabernacle, including the precise design of the chôbereth loops and clasps, underscore God's nature as a God of order, precision, and perfection. Every detail, no matter how small, was divinely ordained to contribute to the Tabernacle's flawless construction and symbolic integrity. This speaks to the intentionality of God in His creation and His dealings with humanity.
2. **Unity of God's Dwelling:** The primary function of chôberet was to make the Tabernacle curtains "one" ([[Exodus 26:6]], [[Exodus 36:13]]). This physical unity of God's dwelling place symbolizes the spiritual unity that God desires for His people. Just as the Tabernacle could not function as a fragmented collection of parts, so too is the community of faith called to be a unified body, where each part is "joined and knit together" (cf. [[Ephesians 4:16]]).
3. **The Interconnectedness of Sacred Space:** The chôbereth demonstrates that the sacred space was not merely a collection of materials but a divinely integrated system. This principle can be extended to understanding the interconnectedness of all elements within God's redemptive plan, where each part serves a vital role in the larger divine purpose.
4. **The Importance of Seemingly Small Details:** The word highlights how seemingly minor components are absolutely essential for the grand design. In God's economy, no detail is insignificant; every element, including the humble "joint," contributes to the overall glory and functionality of His purposes.
### Summary
The Hebrew word חֹבֶרֶת (chôbereth, `{{H2279}}`) literally denotes "a joint" or "that which couples," functioning as an active participle of the root חָבַר (chabar, `{{H2266}}`) meaning "to join." Its exclusive biblical occurrences are found in the book of Exodus, where it meticulously describes the loops and clasps vital for connecting the curtains and coverings of the Tabernacle. These "coupling" elements were indispensable for ensuring the physical unity and structural integrity of God's sacred dwelling place. Theologically, chôberet underscores the divine emphasis on order, precision, and the profound importance of unity within God's design. It symbolizes the cohesion necessary for a sacred space and, by extension, for the community of faith, demonstrating that even the smallest components are crucial for the integrity and perfection of God's grand plan.
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