from חָצֵר; court-yard; Chetsron, the name of a place in Palestine; also of two Israelites; Hezron.
Transliteration:Chetsrôwn
Pronunciation:khets-rone'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H2696}}` (חֶצְרוֹן, Chetsrôwn), transliterated as Hezron, is primarily a proper noun. Its etymological root is the noun `{{H2691}}` (חָצֵר, chatser), which denotes a "courtyard," "enclosure," "settlement," or "village." Thus, the name Hezron inherently carries a semantic connection to the concept of a defined or enclosed space, a settled habitation, or perhaps even a protected area. While the base meaning refers to a physical structure or place, its application as a proper noun for individuals suggests a metaphorical extension, possibly indicating one who is "of the courtyard" or "settled." In biblical usage, `{{H2696}}` identifies both a geographical location and two distinct individuals within the genealogies of Israel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{H2696}}` appears multiple times in the Hebrew Bible, referring to:
1. **Hezron, Son of Reuben:** This Hezron is mentioned as one of the sons of Reuben, the firstborn of Jacob. He is listed among those who came with Jacob to Egypt ([[Genesis 46:9]], [[Exodus 6:14]]), and his descendants, the Hezronites, are enumerated in the wilderness census ([[Numbers 26:6]]). His lineage is also recorded in [[1 Chronicles 5:3]]. This individual represents one of the foundational patriarchal lines of Israel.
2. **Hezron, Son of Perez:** This is arguably the more significant figure bearing the name. Hezron was the son of Perez, who was the son of Judah and Tamar ([[Genesis 46:12]]). As such, Hezron is a direct ancestor in the tribal line of Judah. His descendants, the Hezronites, are also noted in the census ([[Numbers 26:21]]). Crucially, Hezron's lineage is traced through the book of Ruth to King David ([[Ruth 4:18-19]]) and subsequently through the genealogies of Jesus Christ in both Matthew and Luke ([[Matthew 1:3]], [[Luke 3:33]]). He is frequently mentioned in the detailed genealogies of 1 Chronicles, highlighting his pivotal role in the Judahite line ([[1 Chronicles 2:5]], [[1 Chronicles 2:9]], [[1 Chronicles 2:18]], [[1 Chronicles 2:21]], [[1 Chronicles 2:24-25]], [[1 Chronicles 4:1]]). The repeated emphasis on his descendants and their role in the tribal inheritance underscores his importance.
3. **Hezron, a Place in Judah:** A town named Hezron is listed as part of the inheritance of the tribe of Judah in the Negeb, specifically near Kadesh-barnea ([[Joshua 15:3]], [[Joshua 15:25]]). Its inclusion in the tribal allotment highlights the fulfillment of God's promise of land to Israel. The name likely reflects a characteristic of the place, perhaps a well-defined settlement or an area with enclosures.
In all contexts, the usage of `{{H2696}}` is as a proper noun, designating specific entities within the biblical narrative, whether individuals contributing to the nation's lineage or a geographical marker within the promised land.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word to `{{H2696}}` is its root, `{{H2691}}` (חָצֵר, chatser), which means "courtyard," "enclosure," "village," or "settlement." This root is foundational to understanding the potential implications of the name Hezron. The concept of an "enclosure" or "settlement" can evoke ideas of security, belonging, or a defined space. Other proper nouns in the Bible, such as Hazor (meaning "enclosure" or "fortified settlement"), also derive from this root, reinforcing the semantic field. The connection suggests a tangible, established presence, whether for a person or a place. The name Hezron, therefore, subtly carries the connotation of being "settled" or "established," which resonates with the genealogical stability it represents in the Judahite line.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H2696}}` primarily stems from the inclusion of Hezron, son of Perez, in the direct lineage of King David and, by extension, the Messiah, Jesus Christ. This underscores God's meticulous and faithful preservation of the covenant line through seemingly ordinary individuals. Hezron's presence in the genealogies of [[Matthew 1:3]] and [[Luke 3:33]] testifies to the divine providence at work, guiding the course of human history toward the fulfillment of redemptive promises. Even seemingly minor figures like Hezron play a crucial role in God's grand narrative of salvation.
The name's inherent meaning, "enclosure" or "settlement," can also be seen metaphorically. God establishes His people, provides them with a "settled" inheritance (the land), and creates a "courtyard" where He dwells among them (the Tabernacle/Temple). Hezron's place in the Judahite line, which ultimately leads to the King who establishes an eternal kingdom, subtly reflects this divine act of establishment and security. The existence of two distinct Hezrons (one from Reuben, one from Judah) also highlights God's sovereign choice and election in working out His purposes, particularly in the selection of the Judahite line for the royal covenant.
### Summary
`{{H2696}}` (חֶצְרוֹן, Chetsrôwn), or Hezron, is a Hebrew proper noun derived from the root meaning "courtyard" or "enclosure." It identifies both a specific town in the tribal allotment of Judah and, more significantly, two individuals in the genealogies of Israel. One Hezron is a son of Reuben, while the other, a son of Perez, is a pivotal ancestor in the lineage of King David and ultimately the Lord Jesus Christ. The repeated mention of this latter Hezron in biblical genealogies, including the Messianic lines, highlights God's faithful and providential preservation of His covenant promises through specific individuals. The name's etymological connection to "settlement" or "enclosure" subtly reinforces themes of divine establishment, security, and the defined path of God's redemptive plan.
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