### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew phrase **'Ăbîy Gibʻôwn**, represented by `{{H25}}`, directly translates to "father (i.e. founder) of Gibon" or "father of Gibeon". It is derived from `{{H1}}`, meaning "father", and `{{H1391}}`, referring to "Gibeon". This specific designation appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible, identifying a particular individual linked to the settlement of Gibeon.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H25}}` specifically identifies Jehiel as the "father of Gibeon". Both occurrences of this phrase are found in the book of Chronicles, highlighting a genealogical and residential detail. For instance, in [[1 Chronicles 9:35]], it is stated that "in Gibeon `{{H1391}}` dwelt `{{H3427}}` the father `{{H1}}` of Gibeon `{{H1391}}``{{H25}}`, Jehiel `{{H3273}}`, whose wife's `{{H802}}` name `{{H8034}}` was Maachah `{{H4601}}`". A nearly identical statement is found in [[1 Chronicles 8:29]]. These instances establish Jehiel as a prominent figure, likely a founding patriarch, associated with the city of Gibeon.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide further context for `{{H25}}` and its components:
* `{{H1}}` **ʼâb** (father): This foundational term is present in the very definition of `{{H25}}`, indicating a literal father, chief, or founder. It signifies a source or progenitor, as seen in [[Joshua 24:15]], where "fathers" are mentioned in the context of service to God.
* `{{H1391}}` **Gibʻôwn** (Gibeon): This refers to the place, Gibeon, which is integral to the meaning of `{{H25}}`. Its significance is evident in accounts like [[1 Kings 3:5]], where the LORD appeared to Solomon in Gibeon.
* `{{H3427}}` **yâshab** (to dwell): This verb frequently accompanies `{{H25}}` in the provided verses, emphasizing the residential aspect of the "father of Gibeon". [[Psalms 27:4]] uses this term to express a desire "to dwell in the house of the LORD".
* `{{H3273}}` **Yᵉʻîyʼêl** (Jeiel): The individual identified by `{{H25}}` in [[1 Chronicles 9:35]] is Jeiel. This proper name appears elsewhere, for example, in [[1 Chronicles 15:21]], listing Levites who played musical instruments.
* `{{H4601}}` **Maʻăkâh** (Maachah): The name of the wife of the "father of Gibeon" `{{H25}}` is Maachah, as stated in [[1 Chronicles 9:35]]. This name appears in various contexts, such as [[2 Chronicles 11:21]], mentioning Rehoboam's love for Maachah, daughter of Absalom.
* `{{H802}}` **ʼishshâh** (woman/wife): This general term for "woman" or "wife" appears alongside `{{H25}}` when describing Jehiel's wife. [[Genesis 2:24]] uses it to describe a man cleaving "unto his wife".
* `{{H8034}}` **shêm** (name): The word for "name" is used in conjunction with `{{H25}}` to identify the wife of the "father of Gibeon". [[Proverbs 18:10]] states that "The name of the LORD is a strong tower".
### Theological Significance
The specific title `{{H25}}` carries significance in defining a particular aspect of identity and origin within a community.
* **Foundational Identity:** As "father (i.e. founder) of Gibeon," `{{H25}}` points to the individual responsible for the establishment or prominent leadership of the settlement, linking a personal identity to a geographical location.
* **Genealogical Record:** Its appearance in Chronicles emphasizes its role in preserving the lineage and family structures of Israel, showcasing the meticulous record-keeping of ancestral ties.
* **Historical Anchoring:** The designation grounds the history of Gibeon in a specific figure, Jehiel, connecting the place's story to a human patriarch and his family, who "dwelt" there `{{H3427}}`.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H25}}` **'Ăbîy Gibʻôwn** is a precise Hebrew designation identifying a foundational figure, Jehiel, as the "father" or "founder" of the city of Gibeon. Its limited but specific usage in the biblical record highlights the importance of patriarchal roles, family lineage, and the historical establishment of key settlements, drawing upon the broader concepts conveyed by related terms like "father" `{{H1}}`, "Gibeon" `{{H1391}}`, and "to dwell" `{{H3427}}`.
TRV