### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Chelqath**, represented by `{{H2520}}`, is the name for **Helkath**, a place in Palestine. It appears **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible. The name itself is derived from a form of a word meaning **smoothness**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H2520}}` is used exclusively as a geographical marker. It is first mentioned as part of a **border** description [[Joshua 19:25]]. Later, **Helkath** is identified as one of four **cities** allocated, noted as having "her **suburbs**" [[Joshua 21:31]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help establish the geographical context of Helkath:
* `{{H1366}}` **gᵉbûwl** (border, bound, coast): This word defines the physical territory where Helkath is situated, marking it as a location on a boundary line [[Joshua 19:25]]. God promised to enlarge the **borders** of His people [[Exodus 34:24]].
* `{{H4054}}` **migrâsh** (suburb): This term describes the open country or pastureland associated with a city. Helkath is mentioned as a city "with her **suburbs**" [[Joshua 21:31]], indicating it was a settlement with surrounding lands. These were specifically given to the Levites [[Numbers 35:2]].
* `{{H5892}}` **ʻîyr** (city, town): This word classifies Helkath as a settlement or guarded place. It is listed as one of four **cities** in the allocation of land [[Joshua 21:31]]. Scripture notes that unless the LORD keeps the **city**, the watchman is useless [[Psalms 127:1]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H2520}}` is understood through its role in the allocation of the Promised Land, a central theme in God's covenant with Israel.
* **Divine Sovereignty over Borders:** Helkath exists as part of a **border** `{{H1366}}` established by divine command. The setting of boundaries is portrayed as a sovereign act of God, who enlarges coasts [[1 Chronicles 4:10]] and establishes perpetual decrees [[Jeremiah 5:22]].
* **Provision for the Levites:** The designation of Helkath as a **city** `{{H5892}}` with **suburbs** `{{H4054}}` for the Levites highlights God's specific provision for the priestly tribe, ensuring they had dwelling places throughout Israel [[Numbers 35:2]].
* **Sanctified Geography:** While simply a location, Helkath is part of a system of divinely appointed **cities** `{{H5892}}`. Such cities are depicted elsewhere as places of God's protection and purpose, with Jerusalem being called the "holy **city**" [[Daniel 9:24]] and the "**city** of God" [[Psalms 46:4]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2520}}` is a proper noun for the place Helkath. While its direct appearances are limited to geographical lists, its significance is revealed by its context. It serves as a marker on a divinely appointed **border** and as a **city** with **suburbs** provided for the Levites. Helkath, therefore, illustrates how specific locations in scripture are integrated into the grand narrative of God's covenant, promise, and sovereign organization of His people in the land.
TRV