feminine of חַשְׁמַן; fertile; Chasmonah, a place in the Desert; Hashmonah.
Transliteration:Chashmônâh
Pronunciation:khash-mo-naw'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term חַשְׁמֹנָה (Chashmônâh), Strong's number `{{H2832}}`, is a proper noun referring to a specific geographical location. Its base definition indicates it is the "feminine of חַשְׁמַן," which carries the meaning of "fertile." This suggests that the place named Chashmonah was characterized by fruitfulness, richness, or productivity, especially notable within the context of the desert environment where it was situated. The semantic range is primarily geographical, denoting a specific encampment site, but the etymological root imbues it with connotations of sustenance and abundance, contrasting with the general barrenness of the wilderness.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Chashmonah is mentioned twice in the Hebrew Bible, specifically within the book of Numbers, as one of the stations on the Israelites' wilderness journey after their exodus from Egypt.
* [[Numbers 33:29]]: "They journeyed from Mithkah and encamped at Hashmonah."
* [[Numbers 33:30]]: "They journeyed from Hashmonah and encamped at Moseroth."
These occurrences are found within the detailed itinerary of the Israelites' forty-year wandering, meticulously recorded in Numbers 33. This chapter serves as a historical record, chronicling the various places where the Israelites encamped and journeyed under divine guidance. Chashmonah appears between Mithkah and Moseroth, indicating a specific point in their prolonged pilgrimage. The listing of these encampments, including one named "fertile," underscores the providential care of God in leading His people through desolate lands, suggesting that even in the wilderness, there were points of respite and provision.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary linguistic connection for חַשְׁמֹנָה is its derivation from the concept of "fertility" (חַשְׁמַן). While חַשְׁמַן itself is not a distinct Strong's number, its conceptual link is to richness, fatness, or abundance. This places Chashmonah within a broader semantic field related to divine provision and sustenance in challenging environments. Other related concepts include:
* **Wilderness Journey:** The overarching theme of the Exodus narrative, where God's people are tested and sustained in a desolate land.
* **Divine Provision:** The consistent theme throughout the wilderness journey where God miraculously provides water, manna, and quails, making the "fertile" nature of a place like Chashmonah a tangible expression of His care.
* **Encampment (חֲנָיָה - hanayah):** Chashmonah is one of many sites where the Israelites "encamped," highlighting the temporary nature of their dwelling and their constant movement under God's direction.
* **Geographical Markers:** Like other place names in Numbers 33 (e.g., Kibroth-hattaavah, Hazeroth), Chashmonah serves as a historical and geographical anchor for the narrative, affirming the reality of the journey.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of Chashmonah, a place named "fertile" in the midst of the desert, lies primarily in its subtle yet profound testimony to God's faithfulness and omnipotence.
1. **Divine Providence:** The very existence of a "fertile" spot in the wilderness speaks to God's ability to provide for His people even in the most barren and inhospitable environments. It serves as a tangible reminder that God can bring life and abundance where none is expected.
2. **Hope in Desolation:** For the wandering Israelites, a place named "fertile" would have been a beacon of hope and a source of refreshment, a stark contrast to the harsh realities of desert life. It symbolizes moments of grace and respite on a difficult journey.
3. **God's Leading:** The inclusion of Chashmonah in the divinely orchestrated itinerary of Numbers 33 emphasizes that every step of Israel's journey, including their stops at places of provision, was under God's direct guidance and care. It underscores the theme of God leading His people through trials to their promised inheritance.
4. **Symbol of Sustenance:** Beyond literal fertility, Chashmonah can be seen as a metaphor for the spiritual sustenance God provides. Just as He nourished them physically in the desert, He also nurtured their faith and identity as His chosen people.
### Summary
חַשְׁמֹנָה (Chashmônâh, `{{H2832}}`) is a Hebrew proper noun designating a specific encampment site during the Israelites' wilderness wanderings. Derived from a root meaning "fertile," its name suggests a place of abundance or sustenance within the otherwise desolate desert. Mentioned in [[Numbers 33:29]] and [[Numbers 33:30]], Chashmonah is part of the detailed itinerary of Israel's journey from Egypt. Theologically, this name profoundly underscores God's unwavering providence, His ability to provide for His people in challenging circumstances, and His faithful guidance throughout their pilgrimage. It serves as a quiet but powerful testament to divine care, transforming potential barrenness into a source of life and hope.