from חָתַן; a relative by marriage (especially through the bride); figuratively, a circumcised child (as a species of religious espousal); bridegroom, husband, son in law.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **châthân**, represented by `{{H2860}}`, refers to a relative by marriage. It appears 20 times across 19 unique verses. Its primary meanings are **bridegroom**, **husband**, and **son in law**, often highlighting a relationship established through the bride.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H2860}}` defines key familial and political relationships. It is frequently used to identify a **son in law**, as seen with Lot's sons in law in Genesis [[Genesis 19:14]], David's status in King Saul's house [[1 Samuel 18:18]], and Samson's connection to the Timnite [[Judges 15:6]]. The term also carries powerful imagery as a **bridegroom**, symbolizing joy and celebration. The silencing of "the voice of the **bridegroom**" is a recurring sign of judgment and desolation in Jeremiah ([[Jeremiah 7:34]], [[Jeremiah 16:9]]). A unique usage appears in Exodus, where Zipporah calls Moses a "bloody **husband**" in connection to the circumcision of their son ([[Exodus 4:25]], [[Exodus 4:26]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context of marriage and family surrounding **châthân**:
* `{{H3618}}` **kallâh** (bride, daughter-in-law, spouse): This is the direct female counterpart to **châthân**. The two words are often paired to describe a marital union and the joy associated with it ([[Isaiah 62:5]], [[Joel 2:16]]).
* `{{H1166}}` **bâʻal** (to marry): This verb describes the act of marriage that establishes the relationship of a **châthân**. It is used in Isaiah to describe how Zion's sons will marry her, just before the comparison is made to a **bridegroom** rejoicing [[Isaiah 62:5]].
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (son): This term for a male child provides the basis for the relationship of a "son in law." The word appears alongside **châthân** when family members are being listed ([[Genesis 19:12]], [[Nehemiah 6:18]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2860}}` is significant, especially in its metaphorical uses.
* **Symbol of National Joy:** The presence of the **bridegroom**'s voice is a sign of God's blessing, peace, and gladness within the land. Its absence signifies judgment and sorrow [[Jeremiah 25:10]], while its promised return signifies restoration [[Jeremiah 33:11]].
* **Image of Divine Relationship:** God's delight in His people is compared to the joy a **bridegroom** has for his bride, illustrating a deep, personal, and celebratory covenant relationship [[Isaiah 62:5]].
* **Picture of Righteousness and Glory:** The righteous individual, clothed in salvation by God, is depicted as a **bridegroom** adorning himself, which speaks to the honor and beauty bestowed by God [[Isaiah 61:10]]. The sun itself is likened to a **bridegroom** coming out of his chamber, a powerful image of strength and radiant glory [[Psalms 19:5]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2860}}` **châthân** extends beyond its literal meaning of a male relative by marriage. It serves as a vital indicator of social ties, from familial bonds to political alliances. Theologically, it becomes a powerful metaphor for joy, blessing, and the intimate, celebratory relationship between God and His people, contrasting starkly with the desolation marked by its absence.
TRV