### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **chôwbâh**, represented by `{{H2327}}`, refers to a **hiding place**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, where it is used as a proper name for a location: **Hobah**, a place in Syria. Its singular usage ties it permanently to a specific event in the life of Abram.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H2327}}` is in [[Genesis 14:15]]. In this passage, Abram, along with his servants, stages a night attack to rescue his nephew Lot from the kings who had captured him. After defeating them, Abram pursued the fleeing enemies "unto **Hobah**, which is on the left hand of Damascus" [[Genesis 14:15]]. The location serves as a geographical marker, signifying the northernmost point of Abram's pursuit and the final stage of his decisive victory.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of the action at Hobah is clarified by several key words in the narrative:
* `{{H5221}}` **nâkâh** (to strike): This root describes the core military action Abram took against his enemies, as he "smote" them. The word can mean to **strike** lightly or severely, and is used for punishment, slaughter, and killing [[Genesis 14:15]].
* `{{H7291}}` **râdaph** (to pursue): This word defines the chase that led to Hobah. It means **to run after**, often with hostile intent, and is used to describe a chase or persecution [[Genesis 14:15]].
* `{{H5650}}` **ʻebed** (a servant): The text notes that Abram was accompanied by his **servants**, highlighting that this was a household effort, not a solo mission. The term denotes a bondman or servant [[Genesis 14:15]].
### Theological Significance
While `{{H2327}}` is a geographical location, its context in Genesis provides theological weight. It is intrinsically linked to a foundational event in the life of Abram.
* **A Landmark of Victorious Pursuit:** Hobah marks the successful conclusion of Abram's mission. The pursuit `{{H7291}}` that ends here is a testament to faithfulness and commitment, themes echoed in the call to pursue peace [[Psalms 34:14]] and to follow the Lord [[Hosea 6:3]].
* **The Site of a Decisive Strike:** The smiting `{{H5221}}` of the enemy forces near Hobah demonstrates righteous action. This act of striking is a significant theme, sometimes carried out by human hands as in Abram's case, and other times representing divine judgment, as when the Messiah is "smitten of God" [[Isaiah 53:4]] or when the LORD smites the shepherd [[Zechariah 13:7]].
* **A Testimony of Faithful Servitude:** The victory was achieved with Abram's servants `{{H5650}}`. This highlights the unified action of a faithful household under its leader, a principle that mirrors the relationship between God and His "servants" who carry out His will ([[Isaiah 42:1]], [[Isaiah 54:17]]).
### Summary
In summary, **chôwbâh** `{{H2327}}` is a term with a single, highly specific application as the place-name **Hobah**. It is not a broad theological concept, but rather a geographical anchor for the narrative of Abram's daring rescue of Lot. Its significance is derived entirely from this one event, where it stands as a permanent marker of a successful pursuit, a decisive strike, and the faithful action of a patriarch and his household.
TRV