lemma טבְחַת missing vowel, corrected to טִבְחַת; from טִבְחָה; slaughter; Tibchath, a place in Syria; Tibhath.
Transliteration:Ṭibchath
Pronunciation:tib-khath'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma טִבְחַת (Ṭibchath, `{{H2880}}`) is a proper noun, identifying a specific geographical location. Its etymological root is derived from טִבְחָה (ṭibḥāh, `{{H2878}}`), which signifies "slaughter," "killing," or "a place of slaughter." Therefore, the name "Tibchath" inherently carries the connotation of a place associated with violence or a site of significant bloodshed. As a proper noun, its semantic range is fixed to this singular meaning as a place name, indicating its origin or a notable event associated with it.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Tibchath (`{{H2880}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in [[1 Chronicles 18:8]]. The passage reads: "And from Tibhath and from Cun, cities of Hadadezer, David took a great deal of bronze, with which Solomon made the bronze sea and the pillars and the bronze vessels."
This occurrence is within the narrative detailing King David's military campaigns and his defeat of Hadadezer, king of Zobah. Tibhath is identified as one of Hadadezer's cities, from which David secured a substantial amount of bronze. This bronze was subsequently used by Solomon for the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem, specifically for the "bronze sea," the pillars, and other bronze vessels. The context places Tibhath as a foreign city, part of an enemy kingdom, whose resources were providentially appropriated for the sacred purposes of Israel's worship.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word to Tibchath (`{{H2880}}`) is its direct root, טִבְחָה (ṭibḥāh, `{{H2878}}`), meaning "slaughter" or "a place of slaughter." This root is part of a broader lexical family:
* טָבַח (ṭābaḥ, `{{H2873}}`): The verb "to slaughter" or "to kill."
* טֶבַח (ṭebaḥ, `{{H2874}}`): A noun meaning "slaughter," "killing," or "meat" (from that which is slaughtered).
These related terms illuminate the violent connotation embedded within the name Tibchath. In the Old Testament, "slaughter" can refer to ritual sacrifice (e.g., [[Exodus 12:21]]) or, more commonly, to violent killing, particularly in the context of war, judgment, or punishment (e.g., [[Isaiah 34:2]], [[Jeremiah 25:34]]). Given the context of David's military victory over Hadadezer, the name Tibchath strongly suggests a place marked by the violence of conflict. The concept of divine judgment and the spoils of war being used for sacred purposes are central to understanding this word's significance.
### Theological Significance
While Tibchath (`{{H2880}}`) is a proper noun and does not carry direct theological doctrine, its singular mention and etymological background offer several points of theological reflection:
1. **Divine Sovereignty in Conflict:** The acquisition of bronze from Tibhath by David underscores God's sovereignty over nations and their resources. Even in the midst of war and the defeat of an enemy king (Hadadezer), God's hand is evident, orchestrating events to fulfill His purposes for His chosen people and the Davidic dynasty.
2. **Providential Provision for the Temple:** The bronze from Tibhath was destined for the construction of Solomon's Temple, the central place of worship and God's dwelling among His people. This illustrates God's providential care, using even the spoils of war from a city named "slaughter" to provide materials for a house of peace and worship. It speaks to God's ability to redeem and repurpose circumstances, turning instruments of conflict into resources for divine service.
3. **Fulfillment of Covenant Promises:** David's victories, including the acquisition of resources from places like Tibhath, were integral to establishing his kingdom and securing the peace necessary for Solomon to build the Temple. This indirectly points to the fulfillment of God's covenant promises to David, ensuring the stability and prosperity of his reign and the eventual construction of a permanent dwelling for the Lord.
4. **Symbolism of Transformation:** The name "Slaughter" (Tibchath) yielding materials for the Temple (a place of peace and reconciliation) can be seen as a powerful symbol of divine transformation. God can bring forth sacred purpose and beauty from places or events marked by violence and destruction.
### Summary
Ṭibchath (`{{H2880}}`) is a unique proper noun, a city in Syria, whose name etymologically means "slaughter." It appears only once in [[1 Chronicles 18:8]], identified as a city of Hadadezer from which King David acquired a significant amount of bronze. This bronze was subsequently dedicated to the construction of Solomon's Temple, specifically for the bronze sea, pillars, and other vessels. The word's root, טִבְחָה (`{{H2878}}`), firmly establishes its connection to themes of violence and warfare. Theologically, Tibchath's significance lies not in its direct meaning, but in its contextual role as a source of material for the Temple. It serves as a testament to God's overarching sovereignty, His providential provision even through the spoils of war, and His capacity to repurpose circumstances—even those marked by conflict—for the advancement of His divine purposes and the establishment of His sacred dwelling place among His people.
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