### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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