The Hebrew word Chŏrêm, represented by H2765, is defined as devoted; Chorem, a place in Palestine; Horem. Its usage in scripture is highly specific, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse. The name derives from a root that signifies something devoted.
The sole appearance of H2765 is in the book of Joshua, where it is listed as one of the cities allocated as inheritance. The verse reads, "And Iron, and Migdalel, Horem, and Bethanath, and Bethshemesh; nineteen cities with their villages" Joshua 19:38. In this context, Horem is identified as one of the fortified cities, complete with its associated villages, that were part of the territorial division.
Several other place names and terms are mentioned in direct connection with Horem in its only biblical context:
- H3375 Yirʼôwn (Iron): Defined as "fearfulness; Jiron, a place in Palestine; Iron," it is a city listed immediately before Horem Joshua 19:38.
- H4027 Migdal-ʼÊl (Migdal-el): Meaning "tower of God; Migdal-El, a place in Palestine; Migdal-el," this city is also part of the same list Joshua 19:38.
- H1043 Bêyth ʻĂnâth (Beth-anath): A place in Palestine listed directly after Horem Joshua 19:38.
- H1053 Bêyth Shemesh (Beth-shemesh): Meaning "house of (the) sun," it is another city in this group Joshua 19:38.
- H5892 ʻîyr (city): This is the general term used to classify Horem and the surrounding locations as fortified urban centers Joshua 19:38.
- H2691 châtsêr (villages): This word describes the hamlets or yards that were associated with the main cities like Horem Joshua 19:38.
The theological significance of H2765 is derived primarily from its name and context rather than from extensive use.
- A 'Devoted' Place: The name Chŏrêm itself means "devoted." While the text provides no further details, the name suggests that the location was set apart or dedicated in some manner.
- Inclusion in the Inheritance: Its mention in Joshua 19:38 firmly places it within the biblical narrative of the fulfillment of God's covenant of land. It is one of the specific locations that constituted the promised inheritance.
- Context of Divine Order: The listing of Horem among nineteen other cities and their villages demonstrates the structured and detailed nature of the land distribution as recorded in scripture.
In summary, H2765 Chŏrêm is a specific place name whose importance is tied to its singular mention in the Bible. Defined as "devoted," it appears in Joshua 19:38 as one of the cities included in the Israelite land allotment. Though its role is limited, it contributes to the detailed geographical record of the inheritance and carries a name that implies a dedicated status.
TRV