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