the same as חַשְׁמַן; opulent; Cheshmon, a place in Palestine; Heshmon.
Transliteration:Cheshmôwn
Pronunciation:klesh-mone'
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term חֶשְׁמוֹן (Cheshmôwn, `{{H2829}}`) functions primarily as a proper noun, designating a specific geographical location. Etymologically, it is directly linked to the root חַשְׁמַן (chashman, `{{H2831}}`), which conveys the meaning of "opulent," "rich," or "wealthy." Thus, the name "Cheshmon" itself signifies a place characterized by or associated with abundance, prosperity, or richness. Its semantic range is therefore confined to its identity as a particular locale, yet it is imbued with the descriptive quality of its etymological origin, suggesting a fertile or resource-rich area.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Cheshmon (חֶשְׁמוֹן, `{{H2829}}`) appears only once in the Masoretic Text, within the detailed geographical listing of the inheritance allotted to the tribe of Judah.
* **[[Joshua 15:27]]:** "And Heshmon, and Beth-pelet, and Hazar-shual,"
This verse is part of a meticulous inventory of the cities and towns that constituted the tribal boundaries of Judah, specifically those located in the Negeb, or southern region. The comprehensive enumeration in Joshua 15 underscores the precise and divinely orchestrated distribution of the Promised Land among the tribes of Israel. Cheshmon is listed consecutively among other settlements, indicating its geographical proximity to them within a specific administrative or regional grouping. The inclusion of Cheshmon, despite its singular mention, highlights the thoroughness of the biblical record concerning the fulfillment of God's promises regarding the land. Its placement in this detailed roster, without further narrative or historical elaboration, suggests it was a recognized, albeit perhaps minor, settlement within Judah's divinely appointed territory.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct linguistic connection for Cheshmon (`{{H2829}}`) is to its root, חַשְׁמַן (chashman, `{{H2831}}`), which means "rich" or "opulent." While `{{H2831}}` itself is rare in the biblical corpus, its semantic field is highly significant within the broader biblical narrative, often associated with:
* **Divine Provision and Blessing:** The concept of "wealth" or "abundance" is frequently linked to God's generosity. The Promised Land itself is described as a "land flowing with milk and honey" ([[Exodus 3:8]]), a testament to the richness and prosperity God bestows upon His people. The name Cheshmon subtly echoes this theme of divine provision within the land.
* **Inheritance (נַחֲלָה - nachalah):** The detailed division of the land in the book of Joshua emphasizes the foundational concept of *nachalah*, "inheritance." Cheshmon, as part of Judah's inheritance, signifies a share in God's promised abundance and the fulfillment of His covenant.
* **Descriptive Place Names:** Biblical place names often carry descriptive or commemorative meanings that provide insight into the character, history, or significance of a location. For instance, "Beersheba" (well of the oath) or "Ai" (ruin) convey specific associations. Cheshmon, meaning "opulent," might have reflected a perceived prosperity, fertility, or strategic value of the area, even if not explicitly detailed in the text. This naming convention reinforces the idea that the land itself bears witness to its inherent qualities, often divinely bestowed.
### Theological Significance
Although Cheshmon (`{{H2829}}`) is a geographically specific and briefly mentioned place, its name, "opulent," carries a quiet yet profound theological resonance within the overarching narrative of the Promised Land and God's covenant with Israel.
1. **God's Faithfulness and Abundant Provision:** The very existence of a place named "Opulent" within the divinely apportioned land of Judah serves as a subtle testament to God's faithfulness in providing a rich and abundant inheritance for His people. The land itself was a tangible manifestation of God's covenant promises, a place designed for blessing, sustenance, and flourishing.
2. **The Nature of the Inheritance:** The inclusion of such a place name, even a seemingly minor one, contributes to the holistic picture of the land as a gracious gift from God, inherently capable of sustaining and enriching His people. It speaks to the potential for prosperity and well-being that was integral to the divine gift of the land.
3. **Symbolic Echoes of Divine Generosity:** While not an explicit theological symbol, the name "Cheshmon" functions as a quiet reminder that God's provision for His people is comprehensive, generous, and extends even to the character of the very ground they inherit. It reflects a worldview where the physical landscape itself can bear witness to divine attributes and the fulfillment of divine promises.
### Summary
Cheshmon (חֶשְׁמוֹן, `{{H2829}}`) is a Hebrew proper noun, meaning "opulent" or "wealthy," derived from `{{H2831}}`. It identifies a specific geographical location, mentioned only once in the biblical text in [[Joshua 15:27]], where it is listed among the cities allotted to the tribe of Judah in the Negeb. Its singular occurrence as a place name within the meticulous land distribution highlights the thoroughness of God's provision for Israel. The name itself, "Opulent," subtly echoes the theme of divine blessing and the abundant inheritance God provided for His people, underscoring His faithfulness in fulfilling His covenant promises through the gift of a rich and sustaining land.
TRV