a variation for the first part of חַמֹּת דֹּאר; hot springs; Chammath, a place in Palestine; Hammath.
Transliteration:Chammath
Pronunciation:klam-math'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma חַמַּת (Chammath, `{{H2575}}`) is a proper noun, specifically a place name. Its core meaning is derived from a root associated with "heat" or "hot," leading to the specific connotation of "hot springs." This definition points to a geographical location characterized by thermal waters. The entry notes it as a "variation for the first part of חַמֹּת דֹּאר" (Chammath-Dor), suggesting either a shortened form of a longer name or a closely related site sharing the characteristic of hot springs. Thus, the semantic range is primarily geographical, designating a specific locality known for its natural thermal features within ancient Palestine.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term חַמַּת (Chammath, `{{H2575}}`) appears once in the Hebrew Bible, in the book of Joshua.
* [[Joshua 19:35]]: "And the fortified cities were Ziddim, Zer, and Hammath, Rakkath, and Chinnereth," (ESV).
In this context, Chammath is listed among the fortified cities allocated to the tribe of Naphtali as part of their tribal inheritance in the land of Canaan. Its inclusion in this detailed geographical list underscores its significance as an established and notable settlement within the divinely appointed boundaries. The name itself, "Hot Springs," provides insight into the natural features that likely contributed to the city's foundation and prominence, perhaps as a site for healing or simply a valuable natural resource. The listing of fortified cities also suggests a strategic importance, indicating that these were points of defense or administration within the tribal territory.
### Related Words & Concepts
The base definition explicitly links חַמַּת (Chammath, `{{H2575}}`) to חַמֹּת דֹּאר (Chammath-Dor, `{{H2576}}`), which is defined as "hot springs of Dor." This strong connection indicates either that Chammath is a shortened form of Chammath-Dor, or that they are distinct but closely related locations, both named for their thermal springs. The root underlying חַמַּת is likely related to חַם (cham, `{{H2527}}`), meaning "hot" or "warm," which firmly establishes the etymological basis for the "hot springs" interpretation. Conceptually, the naming of places after prominent natural features was a common practice in the ancient Near East, reflecting the intimate connection between human settlement and the natural environment. This practice implicitly acknowledges the land and its resources as fundamental to life and identity.
### Theological Significance
As a geographical place name, Chammath does not carry direct theological significance in the manner of a divine attribute or a theological concept. Its importance is primarily indirect, contributing to the broader theological narrative of God's faithfulness and provision.
1. **Divine Providence and Land Allotment:** The inclusion of Chammath in the detailed list of cities for Naphtali in Joshua 19 highlights God's meticulous fulfillment of His covenant promises to Israel, providing them with a specific, tangible inheritance in the land of Canaan. Every city, including Chammath, represents a piece of God's faithfulness in action.
2. **Creation and Natural Resources:** The name "Hot Springs" implicitly points to the natural world as God's creation. The existence of such natural features, utilized and named by the inhabitants, subtly acknowledges the Creator who provides the earth's resources.
3. **Historical Grounding:** Chammath serves as a concrete geographical marker, grounding the biblical narrative in real-world locations. This anchors the historical accounts of Israel within a specific, identifiable landscape, reinforcing the veracity of the scriptural record.
### Summary
The Hebrew word חַמַּת (Chammath, `{{H2575}}`) is a proper noun denoting a city in the territory of the tribe of Naphtali, as recorded in [[Joshua 19:35]]. Its name, meaning "hot springs," directly reflects a prominent natural feature of the location. While not a term with inherent theological depth, Chammath's inclusion in the biblical text is significant. It underscores God's meticulous fulfillment of His covenant promises to Israel by providing them with a specific land and its diverse geographical features. The name also exemplifies the ancient practice of naming places after their distinctive characteristics, implicitly acknowledging the natural world as God's creation. The term is closely related to `{{H2576}}` (Chammath-Dor), further confirming its association with thermal waters.
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