The Hebrew word Chiddeqel, represented by H2313, is the proper name for the Chiddekel (or Tigris) river. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. The word, noted as probably of foreign origin, is used to identify this specific, major river in the biblical landscape.
In the biblical narrative, H2313 is used to identify a significant geographical landmark. In Genesis, it is established as the name H8034 of the third river H5104 flowing from Eden, described as the one "which goeth toward the east H6926 of Assyria H804" Genesis 2:14. Centuries later, the prophet Daniel receives a vision while standing "by the side H3027 of the great H1419 river H5104, which is Hiddekel" Daniel 10:4.
Several related words help define the context and significance of Chiddeqel:
- H5104 nâhâr (a stream... river): This word is used in both occurrences of Chiddeqel to identify it as a river. It also describes the Euphrates in the same passage Genesis 2:14.
- H1419 gâdôwl (great): In Daniel's account, Chiddeqel is described as the "great river" Daniel 10:4, highlighting its immense size and importance as a landmark.
- H804 ʼAshshûwr (Ashshur... Assyria): This term provides a specific geographical marker for the Chiddeqel, placing it on the east of Assyria Genesis 2:14.
- H6578 Pᵉrâth (Perath (i.e. Euphrates)): This river is mentioned immediately after Chiddeqel in the Genesis account, linking them as two of the four primary rivers flowing from Eden Genesis 2:14.
The biblical significance of H2313 is rooted in its geographical placement within key narratives.
- Primordial Landmark: As one of the four rivers of Eden, Chiddeqel is part of the foundational geography of the world described in Genesis. Its location is immediately tied to the territory of Assyria Genesis 2:14.
- Site of Divine Revelation: The river serves as the backdrop for a major prophetic vision given to Daniel. Its description as a "great river" in this context emphasizes the magnitude of the spiritual event taking place on its banks Daniel 10:4.
- Geographical Anchor: Paired with the Euphrates H6578, Chiddeqel helps define the landscape of the ancient Near East, providing a fixed reference point in the biblical world Genesis 2:14.
In summary, H2313 Chiddeqel is a specific geographical name for a major river. While its appearances are infrequent, they are significant, anchoring both the primeval history in Genesis and a key moment of prophetic revelation in Daniel. The term's context connects it to other major landmarks like the Euphrates river and the nation of Assyria, establishing it as a fixed and important feature in the biblical world.
TRV