### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word חָמוּל (Châmûwl, `{{H2538}}`) functions primarily as a proper noun, the name "Hamul." Its core meaning is derived from the verbal root חָמַל (chamal, `{{H2550}}`), which signifies "to pity," "to spare," or "to show compassion." As a passive participle, חָמוּל thus means "pitied" or "one who has been shown compassion." This etymology imbues the name with a profound theological resonance, indicating that the individual bearing it is a recipient of divine mercy or human kindness. The semantic range, therefore, extends beyond a mere identifier to a declaration of a state of being, particularly one of being preserved or favored by an act of compassion.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name חָמוּל (Hamul) appears exclusively in the Old Testament as a personal name. He is identified as a son of Perez, and thus a grandson of Judah, through Tamar ([[Genesis 46:12]], [[1 Chronicles 2:5]]). His lineage is crucial, as he is part of the seventy souls who descended into Egypt with Jacob, thereby contributing to the foundational family of the nation of Israel. The genealogical record in [[Genesis 46:12]] explicitly states: "The sons of Perez: Hezron and Hamul." This establishes him as a significant figure in the unfolding history of Judah's tribe. Furthermore, his descendants, the Hamulites, are mentioned in the census taken in the wilderness, specifically within the tribe of Judah ([[Numbers 26:21]]): "Of Hezron, the family of the Hezronites; of Hamul, the family of the Hamulites." These occurrences underscore Hamul's role in the perpetuation of Judah's line, a lineage of immense importance for the future Davidic monarchy and, ultimately, the Messiah. The naming convention, "pitied," may allude to the circumstances surrounding Perez's birth (the unusual and potentially scandalous situation involving Judah and Tamar) and God's providential care in preserving this vital family line despite its complexities.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary linguistic connection for חָמוּל (`{{H2538}}`) is its root verb, חָמַל (chamal, `{{H2550}}`), which conveys the active sense of showing pity or sparing. This root is frequently used in the Old Testament to describe divine compassion, as seen in passages where God "spares" or "has pity" on His people ([[Joel 2:17]], [[Zechariah 11:5-6]]). Other related Hebrew terms that express aspects of divine mercy and grace include:
* חֶסֶד (chesed, `{{H2617}}`): often translated as "steadfast love," "mercy," or "loyal love," denoting God's covenant faithfulness.
* רַחֲמִים (rachamim, `{{H7356}}`): meaning "compassion" or "mercy," often derived from the root for "womb," suggesting a deep, visceral, motherly pity.
These concepts collectively form the rich tapestry of God's benevolent character and His interactions with humanity, particularly His chosen people. The name Hamul stands as a testament to the experience of being a recipient of such divine attributes.
### Theological Significance
The name חָמוּל (Hamul), meaning "pitied," carries significant theological weight within the biblical narrative. It serves as a subtle yet profound reminder of God's pervasive compassion (חָמַל, `{{H2550}}`) and providential care for His people. Even in the dry lists of genealogies, names often encapsulate a theological truth or a family's experience of God. For Hamul, his very name declares him to be a beneficiary of divine mercy. This is particularly poignant considering the circumstances of his grandfather Perez's birth, highlighting God's ability to work through unconventional means to preserve His chosen lineage. The continuation of the line of Judah, from which the Messiah would eventually come, is itself an act of profound divine compassion and faithfulness. Hamul's inclusion in the foundational list of those who went down to Egypt underscores God's commitment to His covenant promises, preserving the nascent nation of Israel through periods of vulnerability. The name thus functions as a quiet but powerful affirmation of God's character as one who shows pity and spares, ensuring the unfolding of His redemptive plan.
### Summary
חָמוּל (Châmûwl, `{{H2538}}`) is a Hebrew proper noun meaning "pitied" or "one shown compassion," derived from the verb חָמַל (`{{H2550}}`, "to pity, spare"). Biblically, Hamul is identified as a grandson of Judah, through his son Perez, and is listed among those who went down to Egypt with Jacob ([[Genesis 46:12]]). His descendants formed the Hamulite family within the tribe of Judah ([[Numbers 26:21]]). The theological significance of the name lies in its testament to God's enduring compassion and providential care in preserving the lineage of Judah, a crucial line for the fulfillment of messianic prophecy. It serves as a reminder that even individuals listed in genealogies are recipients of divine grace, underscoring the overarching biblical theme of God's mercy towards His chosen people.
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