### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Chêleb**, represented by `{{H2460}}`, is defined as **fatness; Cheleb, an Israelite; Heleb**. This name is highly specific in its biblical usage, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**. Its singular appearance points to a particular individual within the Israelite lineage.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole mention of `{{H2460}}` occurs in a genealogical listing in [[2 Samuel 23:29]]. In this verse, he is identified by the name **Heleb**, and his identity is established through his parentage and origin: "Heleb the son of Baanah, a Netophathite." This places him within a specific family and geographic context, alongside other figures like Ittai of Gibeah, who belonged to the children of Benjamin.
### Related Words & Concepts
The verse where `{{H2460}}` appears is rich with terms that define lineage and place, establishing a web of relationships:
* `{{H1121}}` **bên**: Meaning **a son**, this word is fundamental to the verse's structure, connecting Heleb to his father, Baanah, and Ittai to his father, Ribai [[2 Samuel 23:29]].
* `{{H1196}}` **Baʻănâh**: This is the name of Heleb's father, defined as **in affliction; Baanah, the name of four Israelites**.
* `{{H5200}}` **Nᵉṭôphâthîy**: This term, meaning **a Netophathite, or inhabitant of Netophah**, describes Heleb's connection to a specific place.
* `{{H1144}}` **Binyâmîyn**: Meaning **son of (the) right hand; Binjamin**, this identifies the tribe of the other individual mentioned in the verse, connecting the entire passage to a key Israelite tribe [[2 Samuel 23:29]].
### Theological Significance
While `{{H2460}}` does not carry broad theological weight on its own, its presence in scripture is significant for what it reveals about the biblical text.
* **Importance of the Individual:** The specific naming of Heleb, even in a single verse, illustrates that the biblical record values individual identity. He is not an anonymous figure but a person with a name, father, and home [[2 Samuel 23:29]].
* **Genealogical Integrity:** The verse's structure emphasizes the importance of lineage and heritage in Israel. By linking individuals to their fathers `{{H1121}}` and tribes `{{H1144}}`, the text preserves the intricate social and familial fabric of the nation.
* **Geographic Identity:** Heleb's identification as a Netophathite `{{H5200}}` highlights how personal identity in ancient Israel was inextricably linked to one's town or region, grounding the historical record in a physical landscape.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2460}}` **Chêleb** is a proper name whose importance lies in its specificity. Its single appearance within a genealogical list in [[2 Samuel 23:29]] serves as a powerful example of the Bible's commitment to detailed record-keeping. It demonstrates that every individual, lineage, and place contributed to the larger narrative of Israel, reinforcing the value of personal history within the scriptural account.
TRV