### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]]).
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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