### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼâchôwth**, represented by `{{H269}}`, is the primary term for **sister**. As the irregular feminine of `{{H251}}` ʼâch (brother), it appears **114 times** across **104 unique verses**. While its core meaning is a female sibling, its usage in scripture extends widely to describe kinship, national identity, and deep relational intimacy, both literally and figuratively.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H269}}` is used in multiple key contexts. It defines literal kinship, as with Miriam, the **sister** of Aaron [[Exodus 15:20]], and Tamar, the **sister** of Absalom [[2 Samuel 13:1]]. The term is also used to conceal a spousal relationship for protection, as when Abraham and Isaac refer to their wives as their **sister** ([[Genesis 20:2]], [[Genesis 26:7]]). Figuratively, it is used as a term of endearment, most notably in Song of Solomon where the beloved is called "my **sister**, my spouse" [[Song of Solomon 5:1]]. Prophets also use it to personify nations, such as when Ezekiel refers to Samaria as the elder **sister** and Sodom as the younger **sister** of Jerusalem [[Ezekiel 16:46]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concepts of family and relationship:
* `{{H251}}` **ʼâch** (brother): As the masculine counterpart, this word is foundational to understanding kinship alongside **ʼâchôwth**. They are often used together to describe a complete family unit, as when Job's brethren and **sisters** came to comfort him [[Job 42:11]].
* `{{H1323}}` **bath** (daughter): This term is frequently used with **sister** to establish familial or national lineage. Ezekiel refers to Samaria and Sodom as **sisters** with their own daughters [[Ezekiel 16:46]], and a sister is sometimes identified as a "father's **daughter**" [[Ezekiel 22:11]].
* `{{H1121}}` **ben** (son): The male counterpart to daughter, **ben** helps define the family structure in narratives involving sisters, such as when Amnon is identified as the **son** of David before his heinous act against his sister Tamar [[2 Samuel 13:1]].
* `{{H3618}}` **kallâh** (spouse): In Song of Solomon, this word is paired with **sister** to elevate the relationship to one of covenantal intimacy and pure love, as seen in the phrase "my **sister**, my spouse" ([[Song of Solomon 4:9]], [[Song of Solomon 4:12]]).
### Theological Significance
The conceptual weight of `{{H269}}` is significant, highlighting different facets of relationship:
* **Covenantal Relationship and Posterity:** The word defines bonds within the covenant community. Rebekah is blessed as a **sister** who will be the "mother of thousands of millions" [[Genesis 24:60]], linking the role to covenantal promise. The term is also used to describe a community that provides comfort in hardship [[Job 42:11]].
* **National and Moral Analogy:** Prophets use **sister** to personify nations and illustrate shared accountability. Ezekiel condemns Jerusalem by comparing its sins to those of its **sisters**, Sodom and Samaria ([[Ezekiel 16:46]], [[Ezekiel 16:49]]). Jeremiah refers to "treacherous **sister** Judah," whose idolatry mirrored that of Israel [[Jeremiah 3:8]].
* **Intimacy and Violation:** The term carries deep emotional weight. In Song of Solomon, "my **sister**" is a term of pure affection, describing the beloved as a "garden inclosed" [[Song of Solomon 4:12]]. Conversely, the story of Tamar demonstrates the horrific violation of this sacred bond when she is forced by her brother Amnon, turning love to hatred and leading to profound shame [[2 Samuel 13:22]].
### Summary
In summary, **ʼâchôwth** is a word rich with layered meaning. It moves from the literal kinship of siblings like Rachel and her **sister** [[Genesis 30:1]] to the figurative depiction of nations in covenant relationship [[Ezekiel 16:52]]. It can signify the highest form of pure love and intimacy, as in Song of Solomon [[Song of Solomon 5:2]], or the deepest betrayal and vulnerability, as seen in the tragedy of Tamar [[2 Samuel 13:1]]. The term masterfully connects the intimate family unit to the broader biblical themes of community, covenant, sin, and relationship.
TRV