The Hebrew word Chammath, represented by H2575, refers to a specific place in Palestine, with a name meaning hot springs. According to biblical records, it appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse. Its sole mention lists it among a group of fortified urban centers.
In the biblical narrative, H2575 appears in the context of the allotment of land to the tribes of Israel. The single verse where it is found lists Hammath as one of the fenced cities assigned to the tribe of Naphtali, alongside other locations like Ziddim, Zer, and Chinnereth Joshua 19:35. This identifies it not just as a geographical location, but as a place of strategic importance and established settlement.
Several related words in its only appearance provide a clearer picture of its character as a settlement:
- H4013 mibtsâr (fenced, fortress, strong hold): This word describes Hammath as a fortification, a castle, or fortified city. This term is also used to describe the prophet Jeremiah being made into a "defenced city" by God, signifying divine protection and strength Jeremiah 1:18.
- H5892 ʻîyr (city, town): This is the general term for city used in the list where Hammath appears. It signifies a guarded place or encampment and is used throughout scripture to refer to both human settlements and the "holy city" of God Daniel 9:24.
While H2575 itself is a place name, the context of it being a "fenced city" connects it to broader biblical themes of security and sovereignty.
- Human Security and Divine Providence: Fenced cities represent human attempts to establish security. However, scripture repeatedly emphasizes that true security comes from the Lord, noting that "except the LORD keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain" Psalms 127:1. The trust placed in these fortified cities could be a source of false confidence Jeremiah 5:17.
- Objects of Divine Judgment: The security of a stronghold is subject to God's authority. The Lord is depicted as throwing down the "strong holds" of Judah in his wrath Lamentations 2:2 and causing fortresses to be spoiled as a form of judgment Hosea 10:14.
- A Metaphor for God's People: The image of a "defenced city" is used metaphorically for a person fortified by God. God declares that he has made his prophet a "defenced city... against the whole land," indicating a divinely granted resilience Jeremiah 1:18.
In summary, H2575 is the proper name Hammath, a location mentioned once in scripture as a "fenced city." Although its direct usage is limited, its context connects it to the significant biblical concepts of cities and fortresses. These structures serve as powerful symbols of both human security and the ultimate sovereignty of God, who alone can build, protect, or bring down any stronghold.
TRV