The Hebrew name Kiçlôth Tâbôr, represented by H3696, identifies a place in Palestine known as Chisloth-tabor. It appears only 1 time across 1 unique verse in the Bible. The name itself is derived from the phrase "flanks of Tabor," indicating its geographical location.
In its single biblical appearance, H3696 is used to mark a key point in the description of a territorial boundary. The verse describes the border for the children of Zebulun Joshua 19:10 as it turned H7725 from Sarid H8301 eastward H6924 toward the sunrising H4217H8121 until it reached the border H1366 of Chisloth-tabor. From this location, the boundary line then goeth out H3318 to Daberath H1705 and goeth up H5927 to Japhia H3309 Joshua 19:12.
Several related words from its context help to define its purpose as a geographical marker:
- H1366 gᵉbûwl (border): This word signifies a boundary, coast, or the territory enclosed. It is used to define the limits of the land God promised, as when He declared He would enlarge the borders of Israel Exodus 34:24 and that their children would come again to their own border Jeremiah 31:17.
- H3318 yâtsâʼ (to go out): A primitive root meaning to go or bring out. It describes the action of the boundary line proceeding from Chisloth-tabor. It is also used to describe God's word that goeth forth from His mouth Isaiah 55:11 and the promise that the faithful shall go forth and grow up like calves Malachi 4:2.
- H6924 qedem (eastward): This term refers to the front, the East, or ancient times. In the context of Chisloth-tabor, it establishes the direction of the boundary line Joshua 19:12. It also carries the sense of antiquity, as seen in references to God's actions in ancient days Isaiah 51:9 and His existence from everlasting Habakkuk 1:12.
The significance of H3696 is tied to the fulfillment of God's covenant promises concerning land.
- Defining Divine Inheritance: Chisloth-tabor's primary role is as a landmark in the allotment of the promised land. Its mention is part of the meticulous process of defining the border H1366 for the children of Zebulun Joshua 19:10, underscoring the faithfulness of God in fulfilling His covenants.
- A Divinely Oriented Boundary: The border moves eastward H6924 toward the sunrising H4217H8121. The east, or the rising of the sun, is used elsewhere to signify God's action, such as bringing His people from the east Isaiah 43:5 and His glory appearing from the rising of the sun Isaiah 59:19.
- A Point of Departure: The border goeth out H3318 from Chisloth-tabor, marking it as a pivot point. This verb is linked to divine action, such as God's promise to bring His people out from the nations Ezekiel 34:13 and His word that goeth forth to accomplish His will Isaiah 55:11.
In summary, Kiçlôth Tâbôr H3696 is a specific geographical location whose importance is derived entirely from its single scriptural appearance. While not a major theological term, it functions as a critical landmark in defining the God-given border H1366 of the tribe of Zebulun. Its context in Joshua 19:12 illustrates the precision of God's promises regarding land and inheritance, showing how even minor place names play a role in the narrative of God's covenant fulfillment with Israel.
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