### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mâbôwn**, represented by `{{H4000}}`, means **instructing** or **taught**. It is derived from the root `{{H995}}` (`bîyn`), which relates to understanding and instruction. This specific term is quite rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H4000}}` is in [[2 Chronicles 35:3]]. The verse describes the **Levites** `{{H3881}}` as those "that **taught** all Israel." Here, `{{H4000}}` is used with its root verb `{{H995}}` to emphasize their instructional role. This instruction was considered a sacred duty, as the text also identifies these Levites as being "holy unto the **LORD**" `{{H3068}}`, connecting their teaching directly to their service to God.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context of being **taught** or **instructing**:
* `{{H995}}` **bîyn**: The root of `{{H4000}}`, this primitive root means to "separate mentally (or distinguish), i.e.(generally) understand" and is often translated as to instruct or teach. It is used when Solomon asks for an understanding heart to **discern** `{{H995}}` between good and bad [[1 Kings 3:9]].
* `{{H3881}}` **Lêvîyîy**: This identifies a **Levite**, a descendant of Levi. The Levites were tasked with sacred duties, including teaching the people, as seen when they "taught `{{H995}}` the people" the law [[Nehemiah 8:9]].
* `{{H3068}}` **Yᵉhôvâh**: The instruction given by the Levites was holy "unto the **LORD**" [[2 Chronicles 35:3]]. This name for God, meaning "(the) self-Existent or Eternal," establishes that the source of all true teaching and understanding is divine [[Proverbs 3:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H4000}}` centers on the divine nature of instruction.
* **Sacred Teaching Authority:** Its singular use to describe the **Levites** `{{H3881}}` highlights their designated role as the official teachers of Israel. This was not a casual task but a foundational part of their ministry [[2 Chronicles 35:3]].
* **Instruction as Consecrated Service:** The description of the Levites as both those who "taught" `{{H4000}}` and who were "holy unto the **LORD**" `{{H3068}}` demonstrates that teaching God's law is a sacred act, inseparable from worship and service.
* **The Goal of Godly Understanding:** Derived from **bîyn** `{{H995}}`, the term implies that the goal of this instruction was not just knowledge, but true spiritual discernment and understanding, a quality that comes from God [[Psalms 119:130]].
### Summary
In summary, **mâbôwn** `{{H4000}}`, while appearing only once, offers a focused insight into the biblical concept of sacred education. It specifically defines the **Levites**' role as consecrated instructors for all of Israel [[2 Chronicles 35:3]]. The word's connection to its root, **bîyn** `{{H995}}`, and its context within holy service to the **LORD** `{{H3068}}`, elevates teaching from a simple act to a divine mandate aimed at cultivating true understanding among God's people.
TRV