from חֲמָת and צוֹבָא; Chamath of Tsobah; probably the same as חֲמָת; Chamath-Tsobah; Hamath-Zobah.
Transliteration:Chămath Tsôwbâh
Pronunciation:kham-ath' tso-baw'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma `{{H2578}}`, *Chămath Tsôwbâh* (חֲמַת צוֹבָה), is a compound proper noun, literally translating to "Hamath of Zobah" or "Hamath-Zobah." It denotes a specific geographical location, combining the well-known city-state of Hamath (`{{H2574}}`) with the Aramean kingdom of Zobah (`{{H6678}}`). This compound likely refers to a particular district, city, or region within the broader territory of Hamath that was either under the influence or part of the kingdom of Zobah, or perhaps a specific Hamathite city within Zobah's sphere. The precise relationship between Hamath and Zobah in this specific designation is debated among scholars, but it clearly points to a strategic location in the northern Levant, at the intersection of these two significant ancient Near Eastern powers.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term *Chămath Tsôwbâh* (`{{H2578}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in the book of Chronicles:
* [[2 Chronicles 8:3]]: "And Solomon went to Hamath-Zobah and captured it."
This solitary occurrence is highly significant. It is situated within the Chronicler's account of King Solomon's extensive building projects and military consolidation of his kingdom. The capture of Hamath-Zobah by Solomon indicates a northward expansion of Israelite influence and territory, reaching beyond the traditional borders of the promised land to incorporate regions that were often contested by Aramean kingdoms. This act demonstrates Solomon's power and the zenith of the united monarchy's dominion. The fact that Solomon "captured" it suggests it was a significant stronghold or a key city, not merely an uninhabited region. This conquest underscores the strategic importance of Hamath-Zobah as a gateway or a vital point of control in the northern reaches of the Levant.
### Related Words & Concepts
The study of *Chămath Tsôwbâh* (`{{H2578}}`) is intrinsically linked to several broader biblical and historical concepts:
* **Hamath (`{{H2574}}`):** A major city-state on the Orontes River, frequently mentioned as a northern boundary of Israel's ideal territory ([[Numbers 34:8]], [[Joshua 13:5]], [[1 Kings 8:65]]). It was a significant regional power throughout the biblical period.
* **Zobah (`{{H6678}}`):** An influential Aramean kingdom, often a formidable adversary of Israel, particularly during the reigns of King David and King Solomon. Its king, Hadadezer, was a powerful figure whom David decisively defeated ([[2 Samuel 8:3-8]]).
* **Arameans:** A Semitic people group who established numerous kingdoms in Syria and Mesopotamia, frequently interacting with, and often opposing, Israel.
* **Solomon's Kingdom:** The period of the united monarchy's greatest territorial extent and political influence, marked by peace, prosperity, and extensive building projects, as well as military consolidation. The capture of Hamath-Zobah exemplifies the reach of Solomon's dominion.
* **Northern Borders:** The concept of Israel's northern border, often fluctuating, but with Hamath frequently serving as a significant landmark or desired extent of territory.
### Theological Significance
While *Chămath Tsôwbâh* (`{{H2578}}`) is a geographical designation, its single mention carries theological weight within the Chronicler's narrative:
* **Divine Blessing and Covenant Fulfillment:** The conquest of Hamath-Zobah by Solomon is presented as evidence of God's blessing upon his reign and the fulfillment of promises regarding the extent of Israel's dominion. It signifies the realization of the Davidic covenant's prosperity and expansion. God's favor enabled Solomon to subdue powerful northern entities, securing the borders and influence of the kingdom.
* **The Ideal Kingdom:** The Chronicler often portrays Solomon's reign as an ideal, albeit temporary, manifestation of God's kingdom on earth. The reach of Solomon's power to distant lands like Hamath-Zobah illustrates the potential for God's rule to extend over all nations, foreshadowing the universal reign of the Messiah.
* **Historical Veracity and God's Sovereignty:** The specific mention of such a distant and distinct place as Hamath-Zobah contributes to the historical grounding of the biblical narrative. It reflects the Chronicler's detailed knowledge of the geopolitical landscape of the era, affirming the historical reality in which God's redemptive plan unfolded. God's sovereignty is evident in His orchestrating the rise and expansion of Israel's kingdom, even over formidable foreign powers.
* **Conquest and Dominion:** The act of capturing Hamath-Zobah highlights the biblical theme of conquest, not merely for territorial gain, but as a means by which God establishes His people, fulfills His covenant promises, and demonstrates His power over the nations.
### Summary
*Chămath Tsôwbâh* (`{{H2578}}`) is a unique geographical designation, "Hamath of Zobah," appearing once in [[2 Chronicles 8:3]]. It refers to a specific location, likely a city or district, associated with the prominent city-state of Hamath (`{{H2574}}`) and the Aramean kingdom of Zobah (`{{H6678}}`). Its capture by King Solomon signifies the northernmost extent of his kingdom's influence and power, illustrating the peak of the united monarchy's dominion. Theologically, this event underscores God's blessing upon Solomon's reign, the fulfillment of covenant promises regarding Israel's territorial expansion, and the historical reality of the biblical narrative. It serves as a testament to the comprehensive reach of God's providential care over His people and their kingdom.
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