probably by erroneous transcription for כָּלֵבִי; patronymically from כָּלֵב; a Calebite or descendant of Caleb; of the house of Caleb.
Transliteration:Kâlibbôw
Pronunciation:kaw-lib-bo'
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term *Kâlibbôw* (`{{H3614}}`) is a patronymic noun, meaning it designates a descendant or member of a particular lineage. Its base definition explicitly states "a Calebite or descendant of Caleb; of the house of Caleb." This word is derived from the proper noun *Kâleb* (`{{H3612}}`), the esteemed figure of Caleb, son of Jephunneh, known for his unwavering faith and wholehearted devotion to Yahweh. The definition also notes that *Kâlibbôw* is "probably by erroneous transcription for *Kâlebî*," indicating that it functions identically to the more common patronymic form for a Calebite. Thus, its semantic range is singularly focused on identifying an individual as belonging to the lineage or clan of Caleb.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word *Kâlibbôw* (`{{H3614}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in [[1 Samuel 25:3]]. The verse introduces a pivotal character in the narrative of David's early kingship: "Now the name of the man was Nabal, and the name of his wife Abigail. And the man was harsh and evil in his deeds; he was a Calebite, and he lived in Maon."
In this sole occurrence, the designation "Calebite" (כָּלִבּוֹ) is used to identify Nabal. This detail is highly significant due to the well-established character of Caleb (`{{H3612}}`) in Israelite history. Caleb was one of the two faithful spies who brought a good report from Canaan, demonstrating courage and trust in God (Numbers 13-14). He was promised and received his inheritance in Hebron due to his "wholehearted following of the Lord" (Joshua 14:8-9, 14).
By contrast, Nabal is immediately described as "harsh and evil in his deeds." The juxtaposition of Nabal's wicked character with his distinguished lineage as a "Calebite" creates a stark irony. It highlights that physical descent from a righteous ancestor does not guarantee righteous character. Nabal's actions, marked by arrogance, ingratitude, and foolishness, stand in direct opposition to the faithfulness and integrity exemplified by Caleb. This contextual use underscores a profound disconnect between Nabal's heritage and his personal conduct, serving as a narrative device to heighten the reader's understanding of Nabal's depravity.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word is *Kâleb* (`{{H3612}}`), the proper name of the ancestral figure from whom the "Calebite" derives. Understanding Caleb's character—his faith, courage, and wholehearted devotion to Yahweh—is crucial for appreciating the significance of the patronymic *Kâlibbôw*.
Other related concepts include:
* **Patronymics:** The general linguistic phenomenon of forming a name from the father or ancestor (e.g., "Israelite" from Israel, "Judahite" from Judah). This signifies tribal or familial identity and often implies a shared heritage, responsibilities, or characteristics.
* **Lineage and Inheritance:** In ancient Israel, one's lineage was paramount, determining tribal affiliation, land inheritance, and social standing. The concept of "house" (Hebrew: *bayit*, `{{H1004}}`) often refers to a household, family, or dynastic line.
* **Spiritual vs. Physical Heritage:** The narrative involving Nabal and David implicitly explores the tension between physical descent from a righteous line and the actual spiritual state or character of an individual. While Nabal was a physical "Calebite," he utterly failed to embody the virtues associated with his illustrious ancestor.
* **Reputation and Honor:** Nabal's actions brought dishonor not only upon himself but also, by extension, upon the "house of Caleb" in the immediate context, highlighting the responsibility that comes with a prominent lineage.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of *Kâlibbôw* lies not in the word itself as a theological concept, but in its singular contextual application within the biblical narrative. The designation of Nabal as a "Calebite" (`{{H3614}}`) in [[1 Samuel 25:3]] serves as a powerful theological commentary on the nature of spiritual inheritance and personal responsibility.
1. **The Insufficiency of Lineage for Righteousness:** Nabal's character starkly illustrates that being a descendant of a faithful servant of God (Caleb) does not automatically confer spiritual righteousness or moral integrity. This resonates with broader biblical themes emphasizing that true faith and obedience are personal choices, not merely inherited traits. The New Testament similarly highlights that physical descent from Abraham does not guarantee spiritual standing before God (e.g., [[John 8:39]], [[Romans 9:6-8]]).
2. **The Contrast of Character:** The narrative deliberately contrasts Nabal's foolishness and wickedness with the exemplary faith of his ancestor, Caleb. This contrast serves as a didactic tool, reminding readers that a distinguished heritage carries with it a responsibility to live up to its ideals. Nabal's failure to do so results in divine judgment.
3. **Divine Justice and Individual Accountability:** Despite his noble lineage, Nabal faces severe consequences for his actions, ultimately struck down by God ([[1 Samuel 25:38]]). This underscores the principle of individual accountability before God, regardless of one's family background. God judges individuals based on their deeds and heart, not solely on their ancestry.
4. **The Nature of True Blessing:** While Caleb received a great blessing of land and longevity due to his wholehearted devotion, Nabal, though inheriting a portion of this blessed lineage, forfeits any true spiritual blessing through his unrighteousness. This subtly teaches that genuine blessing is often tied to faithfulness rather than mere birthright.
### Summary
*Kâlibbôw* (`{{H3614}}`) is a unique Hebrew patronymic, appearing only once in the Bible, identifying an individual as "a Calebite" or "descendant of Caleb." Derived from the name of the faithful *Kâleb* (`{{H3612}}`), its sole occurrence in [[1 Samuel 25:3]] is profoundly significant. There, it describes Nabal, a man portrayed as "harsh and evil." The use of "Calebite" in this context creates a stark and powerful irony, highlighting the dramatic contrast between Nabal's depraved character and the righteous legacy of his ancestor. Theologically, this serves as a potent reminder that physical lineage from a godly heritage does not guarantee personal righteousness or protection from divine judgment. It underscores the biblical emphasis on individual accountability, the importance of personal character, and the truth that true spiritual blessing is rooted in faith and obedience, not merely in one's ancestry.
TRV