### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Chalchûwl**, represented by `{{H2478}}`, is defined as **contorted**. It is used in the Bible as the proper name of a place in Palestine, **Halhul**. This term is highly specific, appearing only **1 time** across **1 unique verse**, where it serves a purely geographical function.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical reference to `{{H2478}}` is found in the book of Joshua. It appears within a list of cities located in the tribal allotment of Judah. The verse records it as part of a small group of towns: **Halhul**{H2478}, Bethzur{H1049}, and Gedor{H1446} [[Joshua 15:58]]. Its context is strictly as a geographical marker, helping to define the boundaries and settlements of the region.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words appear in the same verse, providing geographical context for the location of Halhul:
* `{{H1049}}` **Bêyth Tsûwr** (house of (the) rock; Beth-Tsur, a place in Palestine; Beth-zur): This city is listed directly with Halhul [[Joshua 15:58]]. It is also mentioned in genealogical records, as when Maon is described as the father of **Bethzur** [[1 Chronicles 2:45]].
* `{{H1446}}` **Gᵉdôr** (inclosure; Gedor, a place in Palestine; also the name of three Israelites; Gedor): This name, appearing alongside Halhul [[Joshua 15:58]], is used for both a location and for individuals. For example, Penuel is named as the father of **Gedor** in the lineage of Hur [[1 Chronicles 4:4]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H2478}}` is geographical rather than theological. Its inclusion in the biblical text serves a specific documentary purpose.
* **Territorial Demarcation:** The primary function of **Halhul** in scripture is to serve as a landmark in the description of the land inherited by the tribe of Judah [[Joshua 15:58]].
* **Regional Grouping:** It is presented as part of a cluster of cities including Bethzur and Gedor, indicating their proximity and their shared status as towns within the same district of Judah.
* **Historical Record:** Its singular mention provides a fixed point in the historical and geographical mapping of ancient Israel as recorded in the Old Testament.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2478}}` is a precise geographical term with a very limited scope in the biblical text. Its sole purpose is to identify the town of **Halhul** in the list of cities belonging to Judah. Its significance is derived entirely from its context in [[Joshua 15:58]], where it appears alongside neighboring towns like `{{H1049}}` Bethzur and `{{H1446}}` Gedor, contributing to the detailed record of Israel's settlement in the promised land.
TRV