The Hebrew word Chătsêrîym, represented by H2699, is a proper name for Hazerim, a place in Palestine. It is derived from the plural form of a word meaning "yards." This term appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse, marking a specific geographical point in the biblical historical record.
The single use of H2699 is found in a historical account in Deuteronomy. The verse identifies Hazerim as the place where the Avims dwelt before they were dispossessed. The text states that the Caphtorims came from Caphtor, destroyed the Avims who lived in the territory "even unto Azzah," and then settled in their place Deuteronomy 2:23. This mention provides a geographical anchor for the movements of these ancient peoples.
Several related words help clarify the context of Hazerim's only appearance:
- H5761 ʻAvvîym (Avim): This is the name of the people who originally inhabited Hazerim Deuteronomy 2:23. They are also mentioned among the groups in the land promised to the Canaanites Joshua 13:3.
- H3427 yâshab (to dwell, sit, remain): This verb is central to the narrative, used to describe both the Avims who dwelt in Hazerim and the Caphtorims who dwelt there after them Deuteronomy 2:23. Its use ranges from sitting down Psalms 110:1 to dwelling in God's house Psalms 27:4.
- H3732 Kaphtôrîy (Caphtorim): This term identifies the people who came from Caphtor and conquered the Avims Deuteronomy 2:23. They are noted in genealogies as the descendants from whom the Philistines came Genesis 10:14.
- H8045 shâmad (to destroy, desolate): This powerful verb describes the fate of the Avims. It is used elsewhere in Deuteronomy to speak of God's judgment and the utter destruction of His enemies Deuteronomy 9:3 and the wicked Psalms 145:20.
The significance of H2699 is primarily historical and geographical, rather than theological.
- Territorial Succession: The mention of Hazerim is part of a narrative illustrating the theme of one people displacing another. The account of the Caphtorims destroying the Avims and taking their land is a stark example of this historical process Deuteronomy 2:23.
- Geographical Anchor: Hazerim provides a concrete location for the Avims' territory, which extended "unto Azzah" H5804, also known as Gaza Deuteronomy 2:23. This grounds the biblical account in a specific, identifiable region of Palestine.
- Movement of Peoples: The event at Hazerim is part of a larger picture of migrations and conquests. The LORD is even credited with bringing the Philistines from Caphtor Amos 9:7, connecting this specific event to a broader pattern of sovereignly directed history.
In summary, H2699 Chătsêrîym is not a word with deep theological layers but is a crucial piece of geographical data. Its single appearance in scripture serves to pinpoint a historical event—the destruction of the Avims by the Caphtorims. By providing the name Hazerim, the text adds a layer of verifiable detail to the complex history of the land and its various inhabitants, demonstrating the Bible's concern with specific peoples and places.
TRV