### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word chămishshîym (`{{H2572}}`) functions as a cardinal number, directly translating to "fifty." It is derived from the root chamesh (`{{H2570}}`), meaning "five," and thus represents ten times five. Its primary semantic range is quantitative, specifying a precise numerical value for various entities, including individuals, objects, years, or units of measurement. It is consistently used to denote this exact quantity without significant metaphorical or symbolic deviation in its base meaning, though its *contextual application* often carries profound theological weight.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term chămishshîym (`{{H2572}}`) appears numerous times throughout the Old Testament, frequently in legal, historical, and prophetic texts. Its usage can be broadly categorized:
* **Quantifying People:** Often found in census records, military organization, or accounts of groups of individuals. For instance, in military contexts, it denotes a standard unit of command, as seen with the "captains of fifty" (śārê chamiššîm) in [[2 Kings 1:9]], [[2 Kings 1:11]], and [[2 Kings 1:13]]. It also specifies the age for the retirement of Levites from active service in the Tabernacle/Temple at "from the age of fifty years" ([[Numbers 8:25]]), marking a significant transition in their priestly duties. Other examples include the number of prophets' sons in [[2 Kings 2:7]], [[2 Kings 2:16]] and the number of exiles in [[Jeremiah 52:30]].
* **Quantifying Objects and Measures:** chămishshîym is frequently used to specify dimensions or quantities of materials, particularly in descriptions of the Tabernacle and its furnishings. Examples include the curtains and frames of the Tabernacle in [[Exodus 26:5]], [[Exodus 26:10]], [[Exodus 26:18]], [[Exodus 36:12]], [[Exodus 36:17]], [[Exodus 36:23]], and the dimensions of the Tabernacle court in [[Exodus 27:18]]. It also appears in monetary valuations, such as "fifty shekels of silver" in [[Leviticus 27:3]].
* **Quantifying Years:** Perhaps its most significant usage is in relation to the "fiftieth year" ([[Leviticus 25:10]], [[Leviticus 25:11]]), which is explicitly designated as the Year of Jubilee. This unique application carries immense theological weight, detailed further below.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning and significance of chămishshîym (`{{H2572}}`) are enriched by its relationship to several key biblical terms and concepts:
* **chamesh (`{{H2570}}`):** As the root word for "five," it underscores the numerical basis of fifty as ten times five. The number five itself often carries symbolic weight in biblical numerology, sometimes associated with grace or divine completeness.
* **yôbēl (`{{H3104}}`):** This is the Hebrew word for "Jubilee." The direct and explicit connection between chămishshîym and the yôbēl is foundational to its theological understanding. The fiftieth year *is* the Year of Jubilee, an institution of profound social and spiritual significance for Israel.
* **Decade/Ten:** As a multiple of ten, chămishshîym aligns with the biblical significance of ten as representing completeness, order, or a full measure (e.g., Ten Commandments, tithes).
* **Levitical Service and Maturity:** The prescribed age of fifty for the retirement of Levites from active duty ([[Numbers 8:25]]) links chămishshîym to concepts of maturity, wisdom, and the structured progression of sacred service within the covenant community.
* **Military and Administrative Organization:** The repeated mention of "captains of fifty" (e.g., [[2 Kings 1]]) highlights the number's role in establishing practical administrative and military hierarchies within ancient Israel.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of chămishshîym (`{{H2572}}`) is most profoundly manifested in the institution of the Jubilee Year, as outlined in [[Leviticus 25]].
* **The Year of Jubilee and Redemption:** The command to "consecrate the fiftieth year and proclaim liberty throughout the land to all its inhabitants" ([[Leviticus 25:10]]) reveals the Jubilee as a divinely ordained period of radical restoration. During this year, inherited land was returned to its original families, debts were forgiven, and Israelite slaves were set free. This demonstrated God's ultimate ownership of the land and His people, emphasizing themes of social justice, equity, compassion, and the reestablishment of the covenant community's original order. It served as a tangible reminder of Israel's dependence on God's provision and His desire for a just society, foreshadowing the ultimate liberation and restoration brought by the Messiah.
* **Divine Order and Cycles:** As a multiple of five (often associated with divine grace or completeness) and ten (representing order and totality), the number fifty can subtly suggest a divinely ordained cycle or a significant, complete measure within God's redemptive plan. The Jubilee cycle underscores God's meticulous ordering of time and His intervention to maintain balance and justice.
* **Transition and Wisdom:** The age of fifty for Levites ([[Numbers 8:25]]) signifies a transition from physically demanding service to a role likely involving teaching, oversight, or counsel. This speaks to the value of experience and wisdom gained over a significant period of life dedicated to God's service.
* **Sovereignty and Provision:** The regulations surrounding the Jubilee, intrinsically tied to the fiftieth year, underscore God's absolute sovereignty over the land and its inhabitants, providing for His people and ensuring their well-being within the covenant.
### Summary
The Hebrew word chămishshîym (`{{H2572}}`) denotes the cardinal number "fifty." While its primary function is quantitative, its recurring appearances in the biblical text, particularly in the Pentateuch, imbue it with significant theological weight. Most notably, chămishshîym is inextricably linked to the Year of Jubilee (`{{H3104}}`), a foundational institution in Israelite law that mandated widespread restoration, debt cancellation, and liberation every fiftieth year. This connection elevates chămishshîym beyond a mere numerical value, symbolizing God's profound commitment to justice, redemption, and the cyclical reestablishment of His divine order within the covenant community. Furthermore, its use in defining the age of Levitical service and military organization highlights its role in structuring both sacred and civil life, reflecting a divinely ordered society. Thus, chămishshîym points to crucial aspects of God's covenant faithfulness, His provision, and His enduring plan for His people.
TRV