from חַיִל; fortress; Chilen, a place in Palestine; Hilen.
Transliteration:Chîylên
Pronunciation:khee-lane'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term Chîylên (חִילֵן, `{{H2432}}`) is a proper noun, specifically a geographical place name. Its etymology traces back to the root חַיִל (chayil, `{{H2428}}`), which carries a rich semantic range encompassing "strength," "might," "valor," "wealth," "efficiency," or "an army." Consequently, Chîylên inherently signifies a "fortress" or a "place of strength/might." This etymological connection suggests that the location was likely a fortified settlement or a strategic point known for its defensive capabilities. As a proper noun, its semantic scope is confined to its specific geographical referent within ancient Israel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Chîylên (חִילֵן, `{{H2432}}`) appears only once in the biblical text, in the book of Chronicles:
* [[1 Chronicles 6:58]]: "and Hilen with its common-lands, Debir with its common-lands," (ESV)
This verse is part of a detailed enumeration of cities allotted to the Levites, specifically the sons of Aaron (the Kohathite priestly families), following the conquest of Canaan. The broader context of [[1 Chronicles 6:54-81]] provides a meticulous list of towns designated as priestly cities. Chîylên is listed alongside other significant locations such as Debir, Ashan, Juttah, and Beth Shemesh, all situated within the tribal territories of Judah and Benjamin.
A crucial point of contextual analysis is the parallel passage in [[Joshua 21:15]], which lists "Holon" (`{{H2466}}`) in place of "Hilen" when enumerating the same cities given to the Kohathite priests. This suggests that Chîylên (Hilen) and Holon are likely variant spellings or alternative names for the identical geographical location, a common phenomenon in ancient texts, particularly in lists of cities. The mention of "common-lands" (מִגְרָשׁ, migrash, `{{H4054}}`) accompanying the cities indicates that these were settlements provided with surrounding pasture lands for the Levites' livestock, consistent with the Mosaic law concerning Levitical cities (cf. [[Numbers 35:1-8]]). The inclusion of Chîylên in this list underscores its role in the administrative and religious organization of the land of Israel, specifically its allocation to the consecrated priestly class.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word to Chîylên is its root:
* חַיִל (chayil, `{{H2428}}`): This foundational term denotes "strength," "might," "valor," "wealth," or "an army." The etymological link directly informs the understanding of Chîylên as a "fortress" or "place of strength."
Other related terms and concepts include:
* Holon (`{{H2466}}`): The parallel name for the city found in [[Joshua 21:15]], essential for identifying the location.
* מִגְרָשׁ (migrash, `{{H4054}}`): "Common-lands" or "pasture lands," frequently associated with Levitical cities, as seen in [[1 Chronicles 6:58]].
* **Levitical cities:** The broader category of cities designated for the Levites, highlighting God's provision and the structured settlement of the tribes.
* **Priestly allotments:** The specific portion of Levitical cities given to the Aaronic priests, emphasizing their unique role in Israel's worship.
* **Ancient geography of Judah:** The location of Chîylên within the tribal territory of Judah, contributing to our understanding of the land's historical divisions.
### Theological Significance
As a proper noun, Chîylên does not possess inherent theological meaning beyond its geographical identification. However, its significance emerges profoundly from its biblical context:
* **Divine Provision and Order:** The meticulous listing of Chîylên among the Levitical cities serves as a testament to God's precise provision for the priestly families and the divinely ordained order in the distribution of the land. This reflects the intricate blueprint for Israel's societal, administrative, and religious structure, demonstrating God's care for His covenant people and those who ministered before Him.
* **Fulfillment of Covenant Promises:** The allocation of specific cities to the Levites, as commanded by Moses (cf. [[Numbers 35:1-8]]), underscores the unwavering faithfulness of God in fulfilling His covenant promises. The detailed record in Chronicles and Joshua affirms that God's word is reliable and His plans are brought to fruition ([[Joshua 21:43-45]]).
* **Subtle Echo of Divine Strength:** While Chîylên is a physical location, its name, meaning "fortress" or "place of strength" (derived from chayil), can subtly evoke the broader theological concept of God as the ultimate "fortress" or "stronghold" for His people ([[Psalm 18:2]], [[Psalm 91:2]], [[Proverbs 18:10]]). Though Chîylên itself is not a direct metaphor for God, the underlying concept of "strength" (chayil) is a pervasive and significant attribute of the divine throughout Scripture. The Levites, consecrated to the service of God, were given a city whose very name speaks of strength, perhaps serving as a quiet reminder of the true source of security and might in the Lord.
### Summary
Chîylên (חִילֵן, `{{H2432}}`) is a Hebrew proper noun, a place name meaning "fortress," derived from חַיִל (chayil, `{{H2428}}`), which signifies "strength" or "might." Its sole biblical appearance is in [[1 Chronicles 6:58]], where it is enumerated as one of the cities allotted to the priestly families (Kohathites) within the territory of Judah, complete with its common-lands. The parallel account in [[Joshua 21:15]] identifies this same location as Holon (`{{H2466}}`). The significance of Chîylên is primarily geographical and administrative, illustrating God's meticulous provision and the structured allocation of land to the Levites, thereby affirming divine order and the faithful fulfillment of covenant promises within ancient Israelite society. While not directly theological in itself, its name subtly echoes the divine attribute of strength and security, a foundational theme woven throughout the biblical narrative.
TRV