xlit Chaggiyîth corrected to Chaggîyth; feminine of חַגִּי; festive; Chaggith, a wife of David; Haggith.
Transliteration:Chaggîyth
Pronunciation:khag-gheeth'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma `{{H2294}}` (Chaggîyth) is a feminine proper noun. Its base definition indicates it is derived from `{{H2293}}` (Chaggîy), meaning "festive" or "festal." This root concept connects directly to the Hebrew word for "feast" or "festival," חַג (chag, `{{H2282}}`). Thus, the name Chaggîyth inherently carries the connotation of celebration, joy, or perhaps one associated with a festival or born during a time of feasting. As a personal name, its semantic range is primarily limited to its titular function, though the underlying meaning adds a layer of symbolic resonance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Chaggîyth appears exclusively in the Books of Samuel and Kings, where she is identified as one of King David's wives and the mother of Adonijah. Her occurrences are:
* [[2 Samuel 3:4]]: She is listed among David's wives who bore him sons in Hebron, specifically as the mother of Adonijah.
* [[1 Kings 1:5]]: Adonijah is introduced as "the son of Haggith" when he exalts himself, saying, "I will be king." This immediate identification underscores her role as his mother.
* [[1 Kings 1:11]]: Nathan the prophet refers to Adonijah as "the son of Haggith" in his conversation with Bathsheba, highlighting the lineage of the usurper.
* [[1 Kings 2:13]]: Adonijah is again identified as "the son of Haggith" when he approaches Bathsheba after Solomon has ascended the throne, seeking Abishag.
In all instances, Chaggîyth's role in the narrative is passive; she is known solely as the mother of Adonijah. Her significance is tied to her son's identity and his ill-fated attempt to seize the throne from Solomon. The text does not elaborate on her character or actions, leaving her as a genealogical marker rather than an active participant in the political drama.
### Related Words & Concepts
The name Chaggîyth is directly linked to the Hebrew term חַג (chag, `{{H2282}}`), which refers to a religious festival or pilgrimage feast (e.g., Passover, Weeks, Tabernacles). The adjective form, חַגִּי (chaggî, `{{H2293}}`), means "festive" or "festal." This connection implies a sense of joy, celebration, and communal gathering. Other related concepts include:
* **Feast (חַג, `{{H2282}}`):** The foundational term for religious festivals in Israel, often accompanied by rejoicing and offerings to God.
* **Rejoicing (שִׂמְחָה, simchah):** A common element of biblical feasts, reflecting the joy of God's presence and provision.
* **Celebration:** The general act of marking a significant event with joy.
The irony of a name meaning "festive" being associated with Adonijah, whose ambition brought strife and ultimately led to his death, is notable.
### Theological Significance
As a proper noun, Chaggîyth does not carry direct theological doctrine. However, her name and the context in which she appears offer subtle theological reflections:
1. **Divine Sovereignty Amidst Human Ambition:** The "festive" name of Adonijah's mother stands in stark contrast to the somber and rebellious nature of his actions. Adonijah's attempt to usurp the throne was a challenge to God's chosen succession through Solomon. Despite his efforts, God's plan prevailed, underscoring divine sovereignty even amidst human ambition and conflict within the royal family.
2. **The Complexity of David's Household:** Chaggîyth's presence as one of David's wives highlights the complexities and challenges within the royal household. David's multiple wives and numerous children often led to internal strife, a theme that reverberates throughout the narratives of his reign.
3. **Symbolic Contrast:** The name "Festive" or "Celebration" for the mother of a son who sought to disrupt the divinely appointed order serves as a poignant, if unintentional, contrast. It reminds us that external appearances or even well-meaning names do not dictate one's character or destiny, nor do they prevent the unfolding of human sin.
### Summary
`{{H2294}}` (Chaggîyth) is a Hebrew feminine proper noun meaning "festive" or "celebration," derived from the root for "feast" (חַג, `{{H2282}}`). She is identified in the biblical narrative solely as one of King David's wives and the mother of Adonijah, a son who attempted to usurp the throne from Solomon. Her appearances are limited to genealogical identification, providing no details about her character or actions. The name's inherent meaning of festivity stands in stark contrast to the strife and ambition that characterized her son's narrative. Theologically, her story subtly underscores God's sovereignty over human ambition and highlights the internal complexities of David's royal household, serving as a reminder that divine plans unfold despite human failings.
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