### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Chetsrôwn**, represented by `{{H2696}}`, is defined as **court-yard**. It primarily serves as a proper name for a place in Palestine and for two individuals in the Israelite lineage. It appears **18 times** across **17 unique verses** in the Bible. The name is instrumental in establishing key genealogical lines and defining geographical boundaries within the nation of Israel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H2696}}` identifies two distinct individuals and a geographical location. One Hezron is listed as a son{H1121} of Reuben{H7205}, the firstborn{H1060} of Israel{H3478} ([[Exodus 6:14]], [[1 Chronicles 5:3]]). Another, more prominent Hezron is the son{H1121} of Pharez{H6557} and grandson of Judah{H3063}, establishing a key link in the tribe of Judah ([[Genesis 46:12]], [[1 Chronicles 2:5]]). This Hezron is named in the generations{H8435} of Pharez{H6557} [[Ruth 4:18]]. Geographically, Hezron{H2696} is a place along the southern{H5045} border of Judah's inheritance [[Joshua 15:3]] and is also identified with Hazor{H2674} [[Joshua 15:25]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the role of `{{H2696}}` in establishing lineage and place:
* `{{H2697}}` **Chetsrônîy** (Hezronites): This patronymic term identifies the **descendants of Chetsron**. It is used to designate the families{H4940} that descended from both Hezron of Reuben and Hezron of Judah ([[Numbers 26:6]], [[Numbers 26:21]]).
* `{{H2674}}` **Châtsôwr** (village): Derived from the same root word for "court-yard," this name for a **village** is explicitly linked to the location of Hezron in the territory of Judah [[Joshua 15:25]].
* `{{H4940}}` **mishpâchâh** (family): This word for **family** or tribe is used directly with Hezron's name to define the "family{H4940} of the Hezronites{H2697}," underscoring his role as the head of a distinct lineage ([[Numbers 26:6]], [[Numbers 26:21]]).
### Theological Significance
The name `{{H2696}}` carries significance primarily through its role in biblical genealogy and geography.
* **Genealogical Keystone:** Hezron is a pivotal figure in the recorded lineages of two of Israel's twelve tribes. He is listed as a direct son{H1121} of Reuben{H7205} [[Exodus 6:14]] and also as a grandson of Judah{H3063} through Pharez{H6557} [[Genesis 46:12]], connecting him to both the firstborn and the royal lines of Israel.
* **Foundation of Families:** The name provides the identity for the **Hezronites** `{{H2697}}`, a recognized family{H4940} unit within Israel. This demonstrates how an individual's name establishes a lasting heritage and a collective identity for his posterity ([[Numbers 26:6]], [[Numbers 26:21]]).
* **Territorial Inheritance:** As a location, Hezron helps delineate the southern border of the land{H776} allotted to the tribe of Judah. Its mention in the description of the border highlights its importance in defining the physical inheritance promised to the Israelites [[Joshua 15:3]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2696}}` serves as a proper name whose significance is tied to the foundational history of Israel. It is not an abstract concept but a specific marker for both people and a place. Through the two men named Hezron, it anchors the genealogies of the tribes of Reuben and Judah, with the son of Pharez being particularly noted in the lineage of Judah [[Ruth 4:18]]. As a place, it defines a part of the inheritance of Judah [[Joshua 15:3]]. Thus, **Chetsrôwn** illustrates the biblical focus on precise lineage and geography to narrate the history and identity of God's people.
TRV