from חָתַל; enswathed; Chethlon, a place in Palestine; Hethlon.
Transliteration:Chethlôn
Pronunciation:kheth-lone'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term H2855 (חֶתְלֹן, *Chethlôn*) is a proper noun, specifically a geographical place name. Its base definition is derived from the root חָתַל (`{{H2854}}`), meaning "to wrap," "to swaddle," or "to enfold." Thus, the name *Chethlôn* itself carries the etymological sense of "enswathed" or "wrapped." As a place name, its semantic range is primarily fixed to its geographical identity, denoting a specific location. However, the etymological root provides a subtle layer of potential meaning, suggesting a place that might "wrap around" or "be enfolded within" a boundary, or perhaps a place that is securely "wrapped" or defined.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
*Chethlôn* appears exclusively in the book of Ezekiel, where it serves as a critical geographical marker in the prophet's detailed vision of the future land division for the twelve tribes of Israel.
* **[[Ezekiel 47:15]]**: "And this shall be the border of the land toward the north side, from the Great Sea by the way of Hethlon, to the entrance of Zedad." Here, Hethlon is explicitly named as a point on the northern boundary of the land, extending eastward from the Mediterranean Sea. It anchors the initial description of the northern frontier, indicating a precise and divinely ordained demarcation.
* **[[Ezekiel 48:1]]**: "Now these are the names of the tribes: from the northern end, from the way of Hethlon to the entrance of Hamath, Hazar-enan, the border of Damascus northward, by the side of Hamath; and they shall have their portions eastward and westward, one portion for Dan." This verse reiterates Hethlon's position as a key reference point on the northern border, specifically for the tribal allotments. It confirms its role as a fixed, identifiable landmark in God's future distribution of the land.
In both contexts, Hethlon functions as a precise geographical reference point, underscoring the meticulous detail and divine authority behind Ezekiel's prophetic vision of the restored land of Israel. It is not a vague or generalized border but one clearly delineated by specific, known locations.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the verbal root from which *Chethlôn* is derived:
* חָתַל (`{{H2854}}`, *chathal*): This verb means "to wrap," "to swaddle," or "to bind up." It is most commonly used in the context of swaddling an infant (e.g., [[Ezekiel 16:4]]). While *Chethlôn* is a proper noun, its etymological connection to "wrapping" or "enswathing" is notable. In the context of a border, this could subtly suggest a boundary that is securely "wrapped" or clearly defined, perhaps even protected.
Other related concepts include:
* **Borders and Boundaries:** The concept of divinely appointed borders is central to biblical theology, particularly concerning the land of Israel. These boundaries signify divine inheritance, security, and the distinct identity of God's people. Hethlon is one among several specific points (e.g., Hamath, Zedad, Hazar-enan) that define these sacred limits in Ezekiel's vision.
* **Land Inheritance (נַחֲלָה, *nachalah*):** The allocation of land to the tribes is a foundational theme in Israel's history and eschatology. Hethlon's role in defining the northern extent of this inheritance highlights the precision of God's fulfillment of His covenant promises.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of *Chethlôn* lies not in any inherent symbolic meaning of the place itself, but rather in its function within Ezekiel's prophetic vision.
1. **Divine Precision and Order:** The inclusion of such specific and detailed geographical markers like Hethlon in Ezekiel's vision (chapters 47-48) demonstrates the meticulous nature of God's eschatological plan for Israel. It underscores that the future restoration and division of the land are not vague promises but a divinely ordained reality with precise boundaries. This specificity reinforces the trustworthiness and faithfulness of God's covenant.
2. **Security of the Divine Inheritance:** If the name *Chethlôn* subtly carries the meaning of "enswathed" or "wrapped," it could implicitly suggest a border that is securely defined and protected by divine decree. The land, with its divinely established boundaries, would be a safe and secure inheritance for the restored people of God.
3. **Fulfillment of Covenant Promises:** The detailed description of the land's borders, with Hethlon as a key northern point, points to the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises regarding the land given to Abraham's descendants. It signifies the complete and final establishment of Israel in their divinely appointed territory, cleansed and renewed.
4. **Theological Geography:** Hethlon is an integral part of Ezekiel's "theological geography," where the physical layout of the land reflects divine order and purpose. The land itself becomes a sacred space, meticulously prepared for the dwelling of God's people and the presence of His glory (as seen with the temple at the center).
### Summary
*Chethlôn* (`{{H2855}}`) is a Hebrew proper noun designating a specific geographical location, mentioned exclusively in the book of Ezekiel. Derived from the root meaning "to wrap" or "to swaddle," its name etymologically suggests something "enswathed." In Ezekiel's prophetic vision of the restored land of Israel, Hethlon serves as a crucial and precise marker on the northern border of the future tribal allotments ([[Ezekiel 47:15]], [[Ezekiel 48:1]]). Its significance is not found in any inherent symbolic action of the place itself, but rather in its contribution to the meticulous detail of God's plan. The inclusion of such specific geographical points underscores the divine precision, order, and faithfulness in the ultimate fulfillment of God's covenant promises, ensuring a securely defined and divinely protected inheritance for His people in the eschatological age.