The Hebrew word Kâbûwl, represented by H3521, is defined as sterile or in the sense of limitation. It is used as a proper name for two places in Palestine. This term appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible, specifically as a geographical designator.
In the biblical narrative, H3521 is used in two distinct contexts. First, it appears as a border town in the territory allotted to the tribes, as described in the book of Joshua Joshua 19:27. Later, it is mentioned in a historical account involving King Solomon. When Solomon gave Hiram, king of Tyre, a collection of cities, Hiram was displeased with them and named the region "the land of Cabul" 1 Kings 9:13, a name which it retained.
Two words are contextually related to the locations named H3521:
- H5892 ʻîyr (city): This word refers to a city or town, a place guarded by a watch. The land of Cabul that Hiram named was comprised of these cities given by Solomon 1 Kings 9:13.
- H776 ʼerets (land): This term means the earth or, more partitively, a land or country. It is used to describe the territory that contained the cities Hiram received, which he called "the land of Cabul" 1 Kings 9:13.
The significance of H3521 is derived directly from its biblical application and definition.
- A Symbol of Displeasure: In the account of 1 Kings 9:13, the name Cabul is explicitly given out of dissatisfaction. This aligns with the word's underlying meaning of being "sterile" or limited, suggesting the cities were considered worthless or unproductive.
- A Marker of Limitation: In its use as a boundary marker in Joshua 19:27, the name reinforces its definitional sense of "limitation." It serves to define the very edge of a territory.
In summary, H3521 is not a theological term but a specific place name whose meaning is illuminated by its context. Appearing only twice, it functions first as a simple geographical border Joshua 19:27 and second as a name signifying disappointment and worthlessness 1 Kings 9:13. The word demonstrates how a place name within the scriptural text can carry a specific, descriptive meaning tied to the narrative itself.
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