### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **châmush**, represented by `{{H2571}}`, describes a state of being **armed**, **harnessed**, or arrayed as able-bodied soldiers. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible. The term signifies a readiness for a significant undertaking, whether it is an organized departure or a military maneuver.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H2571}}` marks pivotal moments of transition and conquest for Israel. When the children of Israel departed from Egypt, they went up **harnessed** `{{H2571}}`, indicating an orderly, prepared exit rather than a chaotic flight [[Exodus 13:18]]. Later, the warriors of the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and Manasseh are commanded to cross the Jordan **armed** `{{H2571}}` ahead of their brethren to help them secure the promised land [[Joshua 1:14]]. This act of readiness is fulfilled as they pass over **armed** `{{H2571}}` in obedience to what Moses spake [[Joshua 4:12]]. The word is also used to describe the enemy's front lines, as when Gideon observed the **armed men** `{{H2571}}` in the Midianite host [[Judges 7:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to define the context of those who are **armed** `{{H2571}}`:
* `{{H1368}}` **gibbôwr**: This term means a **powerful** or **valiant man**, often a warrior or champion. It is used alongside `{{H2571}}` to describe the "mighty `{{H1368}}` men of valour" who were to pass over armed [[Joshua 1:14]].
* `{{H2428}}` **chayil**: Signifying a **force**, **army**, **valor**, or **strength**, this word describes the quality of the armed men. It is used to identify the men of **valour** `{{H2428}}` who were to cross the Jordan armed and ready for war [[Joshua 1:14]].
* `{{H4264}}` **machăneh**: This word for a **camp** or **host** provides the setting for armed men. Gideon went down to the edge of the **host** `{{H4264}}` where the **armed men** `{{H2571}}` of the enemy were stationed [[Judges 7:11]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H2571}}` extends beyond simple military readiness to touch on themes of obedience and faith.
* **Readiness for Divine Commission:** Being **harnessed** `{{H2571}}` or **armed** `{{H2571}}` is presented as a posture of obedience to God's plan. The Israelites leave Egypt prepared [[Exodus 13:18]], and the tribes cross the Jordan as commanded, ready to **help** `{{H5826}}` their brethren inherit their portion [[Joshua 1:14]].
* **Cooperation with God's Promise:** The command for the mighty men of valour to pass over **armed** `{{H2571}}` demonstrates that human action and preparedness are part of fulfilling God's promises. Their readiness to **pass over** `{{H5674}}` is a direct response to the word Moses spake unto them [[Joshua 4:12]].
* **Dependence on Divine Strength:** While the Israelites are called to be **armed** `{{H2571}}`, their ultimate success is from God. The sight of the enemy's **armed men** `{{H2571}}` in [[Judges 7:11]] serves as a backdrop for God's miraculous victory with a small force, reminding Israel that the battle is not won by a great **host** `{{H4264}}` but by the Lord.
### Summary
In summary, **châmush** `{{H2571}}` is a term that encapsulates a state of prepared readiness for fulfilling a divine command. Though appearing only a few times, it marks crucial moments in Israel's history, such as the Exodus and the entry into Canaan. It illustrates the biblical principle that while God's people are to be prepared, organized, and ready for action, their strength and success ultimately depend on their obedience to and trust in God's power to fulfill His promises.
TRV