The Hebrew word Chămâthîy, represented by H2577, is a patrial term for a Chamathite or native of Chamath; Hamathite. It is a specific identifier derived from the place name Chamath. This word appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible, consistently used to denote a particular people group within a larger genealogical context.
In the biblical narrative, H2577 appears exclusively within genealogical lists known as the Table of Nations. Its function is to identify one of the many family lines descending from Canaan. Both occurrences, in Genesis 10:18 and 1 Chronicles 1:16, place the Hamathite in an identical sequence alongside the Arvadite H721 and the Zemarite H6786. The record in Genesis clarifies their lineage, stating "afterward were the families of the Canaanites H3669 spread abroad" Genesis 10:18.
Several related words help clarify the identity and context of the Hamathite:
- H3669 Kᵉnaʻanîy (Canaanite): This identifies the larger ethnic and geographic group to which the Hamathites belong. The Hamathite is listed as one of the "families of the Canaanites" Genesis 10:18.
- H721 ʼArvâdîy (Arvadite): Described as an Arvadite or citizen of Arvad, this term appears directly with the Hamathite in both of its scriptural mentions (Genesis 10:18, 1 Chronicles 1:16).
- H6786 Tsᵉmârîy (Zemarite): A Tsemarite or branch of the Canaanites, this group is also listed alongside the Hamathite in both genealogical accounts (Genesis 10:18, 1 Chronicles 1:16).
The theological weight of H2577 is understood through its connection to the Canaanites H3669. While not mentioned directly in theological contexts, its inclusion in this lineage carries significant implications.
- Genealogical Record: The term's primary role is to establish a specific identity within the biblical account of nations, marking the Hamathite as a distinct family among the Canaanites Genesis 10:18.
- Inhabitants of the Land: As Canaanites, the Hamathites are part of the peoples inhabiting the land promised to Israel. This links them to the group that God promised to drive out before the Israelites (Joshua 3:10, Deuteronomy 7:1).
- Call to Separation: The identification as a Canaanite people places the Hamathite among those with whom Israel was forbidden to intermarry Genesis 24:3 and whose "abominations" were to be avoided Ezra 9:1.
In summary, H2577 is a specific patrial noun, Chămâthîy, used to identify the Hamathites. Though it appears only twice, its context is crucial. By being listed among the "families of the Canaanites" Genesis 10:18, it becomes part of the larger biblical narrative concerning the nations of the promised land, the covenant promises to Israel, and the divine call for a holy and separate people.
TRV