The Hebrew phrase Chămath Rabbâh, represented by H2579, is a proper name meaning Chamath-Rabbah. It appears just 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible. The name is formed from the words for Hamath and great, identifying a specific, significant city used as a benchmark for comparison.
The sole appearance of H2579 is in the prophetic book of Amos. The prophet commands his audience to observe other powerful cities, saying, "go ye to Hamath the great" Amos 6:2. This location is presented alongside Calneh and Gath as a point of comparison to challenge the pride and complacency of Israel. The rhetorical question that follows—whether Israel's kingdom or border is greater—uses Hamath the great as a standard of worldly power and size.
Several related words provide context for the verse in which H2579 appears:
- H2574 Chămâth (walled; Chamath, a place in Syria): This is the base name of the city itself, meaning "walled." It often marks a boundary, as seen in the phrase "from the entering in of Hamath" Judges 3:3.
- H7227 rab (abundant... great): This word, meaning "great," is appended to Hamath to form H2579. It signifies abundance or greatness in size and rank. It is used to describe God's character as "abundant in goodness" Exodus 34:6 and to denote "many" afflictions Psalms 34:19.
- H4467 mamlâkâh (kingdom, king's, reign, royal): This word for "kingdom" is used in the same verse to compare Israel's realm to that of other nations, including the one represented by Hamath Amos 6:2. It denotes dominion and rule, as when God promised a "kingdom of priests" Exodus 19:6.
- H1366 gᵉbûwl (border, bound, coast): The prophet also compares the "border" of Israel to that of the other kingdoms Amos 6:2. The term signifies a boundary or territory, often established by God, as when He promised to enlarge Israel's "borders" Exodus 34:24.
The function of H2579 is primarily prophetic and rhetorical.
- A Symbol of Worldly Stature: By designating it "Hamath the great," the prophet establishes the city as a well-known example of a large and powerful kingdom, setting a high bar for comparison Amos 6:2.
- A Standard for Self-Assessment: The name is invoked to force Israel to measure its own status and security against that of its neighbors. The question "be they better than these kingdoms?" directly challenges national pride Amos 6:2.
- A Warning Against Complacency: The reference serves as an implicit warning. By pointing to other great nations, the prophet suggests that earthly power and expansive borders do not guarantee divine favor or exempt a nation from judgment.
In summary, H2579 is not a common term but a specific geographical identifier with a significant rhetorical purpose. As Hamath the great, it functions in its single biblical appearance as a benchmark of worldly power. Its use in the book of Amos serves to confront the audience's pride, forcing them to compare their own kingdom and borders to a renowned city and consider their standing before God.
TRV