### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **chelbᵉnâh**, represented by `{{H2464}}`, refers to **galbanum**, an odorous gum. The name is derived from a root suggesting something fatty. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entirety of scripture, tying its meaning exclusively to a single, specific context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H2464}}` is in [[Exodus 30:34]], where God commands Moses on the composition of the sacred incense. It is listed as one of the key ingredients to be taken alongside **stacte** `{{H5198}}`, **onycha** `{{H7827}}`, and pure **frankincense** `{{H3828}}`. The Lord specifies that these **sweet spices** `{{H5561}}` are to be combined in equal measure ("of each shall there be a like weight"), underscoring the precise nature of the divine formula for this holy perfume.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of `{{H2464}}` is illuminated by the other ingredients it is compounded with in its only scriptural mention:
* `{{H5561}}` **çam** (an aroma; sweet (spice)): This general term for spices is used to categorize **galbanum** and the other elements in the holy incense [[Exodus 30:34]]. It is frequently associated with the "sweet incense" used in tabernacle worship [[Leviticus 4:7]].
* `{{H5198}}` **nâṭâph** (a drop; specifically, an aromatic gum (probably stacte)): Listed immediately before **onycha**, this ingredient is also an aromatic gum, highlighting the nature of the compound [[Exodus 30:34]]. It is also used more broadly to mean "drops" [[Job 36:27]].
* `{{H7827}}` **shᵉchêleth** (a scale or shell, i.e. the aromatic mussel.; onycha): This ingredient is listed alongside **galbanum** in the unique formula for the holy incense, appearing only in this context within the provided scriptures [[Exodus 30:34]].
* `{{H3828}}` **lᵉbôwnâh** (frankincense): This is the final component mentioned with **galbanum**. It is a prominent element in various offerings [[Leviticus 2:1]] and a valuable commodity brought as tribute [[Isaiah 60:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H2464}}` is derived entirely from its inclusion in the sacred incense.
* **Divine Prescription:** Its presence in the formula given to Moses demonstrates that the elements of worship are not of human origin but are specified by God himself. The exact recipe, including **galbanum**, was a divine command [[Exodus 30:34]].
* **Component of Holy Worship:** As an ingredient in the "sweet spices," **galbanum** was part of the aroma that was burned on the altar of incense before the Lord in the tabernacle [[Leviticus 4:7]]. This act was central to the priesthood's ministry and Israel's relationship with God.
* **Part of a Sacred Compound:** The word never appears alone, emphasizing its role as part of a whole. The mixture of **stacte**, **onycha**, **galbanum**, and **frankincense** created a unique fragrance designated for a holy purpose and no other use.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2464}}` is a term defined by its singular, narrow application. As **galbanum**, it is not significant on its own but is an essential, God-ordained component of the holy incense. Its sole mention in [[Exodus 30:34]] inextricably links it to the sacred rituals of the tabernacle, illustrating how even the rarest of biblical words can hold an important place within the larger framework of prescribed worship.
TRV