The Hebrew term Chătsar hat-Tîykôwn, represented by H2694, translates to "village of the middle". This specific place name, Hazar-hatticon, is exceptionally rare in scripture, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse. Its singular mention ties it directly to a prophetic description of geographical boundaries.
The sole appearance of H2694 is in Ezekiel s vision of the restored land of Israel. It is listed as a landmark on the northern border of the promised inheritance. The verse specifies its location among other significant places, stating, "Hamath, Berothah, Sibraim, which is between the border of Damascus and the border of Hamath; Hazarhatticon, which is by the coast of Hauran" Ezekiel 47:16. This context establishes it not as a site of historical events, but as a crucial marker in a divine blueprint for the future.
Several other geographical terms appear alongside H2694 in Ezekiel 47:16, defining the region:
- H1366 gᵉbûwl (border, coast): This word, meaning "a boundary; by extension the territory inclosed," is used to define the "border" of Damascus and Hamath, as well as the "coast" of Hauran where Hazar-hatticon is located.
- H2362 Chavrân (Hauran): Hazar-hatticon is situated by the coast of this region. Chavran is defined as "cavernous; Chavran, a region East of the Jordan."
- H1834 Dammeseq (Damascus): The border of this major Syrian city helps to situate the location of Hazar-hatticon.
- H2574 Chămâth (Hamath): Defined as "walled; Chamath, a place in Syria," its border is a key reference point for the boundary line described.
- H5453 Çibrayim (Sibraim): Listed immediately before Hazar-hatticon, Sibraim is another boundary marker in Syria.
The theological significance of H2694 is derived entirely from its context within prophecy.
- Prophetic Boundaries: The inclusion of Hazar-hatticon in Ezekiel's vision underscores the specificity and certainty of God's promises. It serves as a tangible landmark in the divinely decreed borders of the future restored Israel Ezekiel 47:16.
- Divine Sovereignty: The meticulous listing of places, including the obscure Hazar-hatticon, demonstrates God's complete authority and detailed planning concerning the land He promised to His people.
- Hope of Restoration: For Ezekiel's audience in exile, the naming of specific, real-world locations as part of their future inheritance provided a concrete foundation for their hope in God's plan of return and restoration.
In summary, H2694 is a place name whose importance is tied to its single, specific use. While it lacks a broad narrative role, its presence in Ezekiel 47:16 is vital. It functions as a pin on a prophetic map, illustrating the precision of God's promises and His ultimate sovereignty over the boundaries of nations and the fulfillment of His covenant with Israel.
TRV