### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Yâbîyn**, represented by `{{H2985}}`, is defined as **intelligent** and is used as the proper name for two Canaanitish kings. It appears **8 times** across **7 unique verses**, exclusively identifying these adversarial rulers. The name consistently appears in the context of conflict with the nation of Israel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H2985}}` first identifies the king of Hazor who organized a northern coalition of kings against Joshua [[Joshua 11:1]]. Later, in the book of Judges, the name refers to a king of Canaan who reigned in Hazor and oppressed Israel. The LORD **sold** Israel into the hand of **Jabin** [[Judges 4:2]], whose army captain was **Sisera** `{{H5516}}`. The conflict culminates with God's intervention, as He **subdued** **Jabin** king of Canaan before the children of Israel [[Judges 4:23]]. The narrative concludes with Israel's hand prevailing against **Jabin** until they had destroyed him [[Judges 4:24]]. His name is later recalled in a prayer for God to deal with His enemies as He dealt with **Jabin** at the brook of Kison [[Psalms 83:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context surrounding **Jabin**:
* `{{H4428}}` **melek** (a king): This title is inseparable from **Jabin**, who is always identified as a **king** of either Hazor or Canaan ([[Joshua 11:1]], [[Judges 4:2]]). It establishes his position of royal authority and opposition to the kingship of the LORD over Israel.
* `{{H3667}}` **Kᵉnaʻan** (humiliated; Canaan): **Jabin** is explicitly called the king of **Canaan** ([[Judges 4:2]], [[Judges 4:23]]), identifying the land and people he ruled. This territory was promised to Israel, making his rule a direct challenge to God's covenant [[Genesis 17:8]].
* `{{H5516}}` **Çîyçᵉrâʼ** (Sisera): This is the name of the **captain** `{{H8269}}` of **Jabin's** army [[Judges 4:7]]. The military conflict is often framed through the actions of **Sisera**, whose defeat is a central part of **Jabin's** downfall.
* `{{H8269}}` **sar** (a head person; captain): This term defines the role of Sisera as the **captain** of **Jabin's** host, or army [[Judges 4:2]]. It denotes a position of high command under the authority of the **king**.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H2985}}` is seen in God's sovereign control over nations and history.
* **Instrument of Divine Judgment:** The LORD **sold** `{{H4376}}` Israel into the hand of **Jabin** as a consequence of their disobedience [[Judges 4:2]]. This demonstrates a pattern where God uses opposing rulers to discipline His people.
* **Demonstration of God's Power:** God's promise to deliver **Jabin's** army into Israel's hand [[Judges 4:7]] is fulfilled when He **subdued** `{{H3665}}` the Canaanite king [[Judges 4:23]]. The use of **kânaʻ** `{{H3665}}`, meaning to humiliate or vanquish, highlights God's power to bring down even the most powerful human enemies.
* **The Ultimate Defeat of Opposition:** The hand of Israel "prevailed against" and ultimately **destroyed** `{{H3772}}` **Jabin** [[Judges 4:24]]. The use of **kârath** `{{H3772}}`, meaning to cut off or destroy, signifies the finality of God's victory over those who oppress His people.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2985}}` is not merely a historical name but represents a figure of opposition within Israel's narrative. As the "intelligent" king of Canaan, **Jabin's** story is a case study in divine sovereignty. He is first an instrument of God's judgment and then the object of His power to deliver. The account of his rise and ultimate destruction serves as a testament to the biblical theme that no earthly king or authority can successfully thwart the purposes of God.
TRV