### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼĂchuzzath**, represented by `{{H276}}`, is a proper name meaning **possession**. It is described as a variation of the Hebrew word אֲחֻזָּה. This name appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, identifying a specific Philistine individual mentioned in the book of Genesis.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H276}}` appears in the context of a diplomatic meeting between the Philistine king and the patriarch Isaac. The single verse notes that King **ʼĂbîymelek** `{{H40}}` **went** `{{H1980}}` from the city of **Gᵉrâr** `{{H1642}}` to meet Isaac. He did not travel alone but was accompanied by **ʼĂchuzzath**, who is identified as one of his **friends** `{{H4828}}`, and **Pîykôl** `{{H6369}}`, the **chief captain** `{{H8269}}` of his **army** `{{H6635}}` [[Genesis 26:26]].
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of Ahuzzath's sole appearance is established by the figures and terms surrounding him in the narrative:
* `{{H40}}` **ʼĂbîymelek** (father of (the) king): The Philistine king of Gerar who leads the delegation. He is a recurring figure in the accounts of both Abraham and Isaac ([[Genesis 20:2]], [[Genesis 26:1]]).
* `{{H4828}}` **mêrêaʻ** (a friend; companion, friend): This term defines Ahuzzath’s specific relationship to the king, marking him as a trusted companion in an official capacity [[Genesis 26:26]].
* `{{H6369}}` **Pîykôl** (mouth of all; Picol, a Philistine): The chief captain of Abimelech's army. His presence alongside Ahuzzath suggests the formal and serious nature of the visit ([[Genesis 21:22]], [[Genesis 26:26]]).
* `{{H1642}}` **Gᵉrâr** (a rolling country; Gerar, a Philistine city): The Philistine city from which the group traveled, a key location in the interactions between the patriarchs and local rulers ([[Genesis 20:1]], [[Genesis 26:6]]).
### Theological Significance
While the name `{{H276}}` itself does not carry independent theological weight, its appearance within its narrative context is significant.
* **Diplomatic Witness:** Ahuzzath's presence in the royal entourage, alongside a military commander, indicates he was part of a formal diplomatic mission from one leader to another. His role as a "friend" suggests he may have been a trusted advisor.
* **Illustrating Relationships:** The mention of Ahuzzath helps paint a more complete picture of the encounter between Abimelech and Isaac, showing that such meetings involved counselors and officials, not just the principal leaders.
* **Philistine-Patriarch Encounter:** His inclusion in the text solidifies the account as a historical interaction between the patriarchs and the surrounding Philistine culture, centered in places like **Gᵉrâr** `{{H1642}}`.
### Summary
In summary, **ʼĂchuzzath** `{{H276}}` is the proper name of a Philistine man whose significance is tied entirely to his single appearance in Scripture. He is remembered as a **friend** `{{H4828}}` and companion of King **ʼĂbîymelek** `{{H40}}`. While his name relates to the concept of "possession," his role in the Bible is as a member of a formal delegation from Gerar visiting Isaac, highlighting a key moment of interaction between the patriarchs and their neighbors [[Genesis 26:26]].
TRV