### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term מָבוֹן (mâbôwn - `{{H4000}}`) is derived from the root בִּין (biyn - `{{H995}}`), which fundamentally signifies "to discern," "to understand," "to consider," or "to perceive." As a passive participle, מָבוֹן carries the meaning of "one who is understood" or, more commonly in practice, "one who is taught" or "instructed." It denotes a state of having received understanding or instruction. The semantic range thus encompasses both the reception of knowledge and the practical application of discernment, often in a context where wisdom or skill is being imparted. It implies a capacity for learning and an openness to instruction, moving beyond mere intellectual apprehension to an internalized understanding that shapes behavior or skill.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word מָבוֹן (mâbôwn - `{{H4000}}`) appears only once in the Masoretic Text, in [[1 Chronicles 25:8]]. The verse reads: "And they cast lots for their duties, the small as well as the great, the teacher as well as the pupil." (ESV).
In this specific context, מָבוֹן is paired with מֵבִין (mebin - `{{H4003}}`), which also derives from בִּין but acts as an active participle, meaning "one who understands," "one who teaches," or "one who instructs." The phrase "the teacher as well as the pupil" (מָבִין לְמָבוֹן - mabin l'mabon) highlights the hierarchical and pedagogical structure within the Levitical musicians chosen for temple service. This passage describes the organization of the temple singers and musicians, where roles were assigned by lot, emphasizing that skill and understanding were crucial, regardless of age or experience. The inclusion of "the taught" alongside "the teacher" underscores the importance of both the transmission and reception of musical and liturgical knowledge for the proper functioning of the temple worship. It suggests a system of apprenticeship or mentorship, where practical skills and spiritual understanding were passed down.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most significant related word is the verbal root בִּין (biyn - `{{H995}}`), from which מָבוֹן is derived. This root is foundational for a cluster of terms related to intelligence, wisdom, and discernment.
* **בִּין (biyn - `{{H995}}`):** The verb "to understand," "to discern," "to consider." It often implies a deeper, more perceptive understanding than mere factual knowledge.
* **בִּינָה (biynah - `{{H998}}`):** A noun meaning "understanding," "discernment," or "insight." It refers to the faculty of understanding or the understanding itself.
* **תְּבוּנָה (tᵉbuwnah - `{{H8394}}`):** Another noun for "understanding," "skill," or "wisdom," often emphasizing practical wisdom or technical skill.
* **מֵבִין (mebin - `{{H4003}}`):** The active counterpart to מָבוֹן, meaning "one who understands," "one who teaches," or "one who has insight." As seen in [[1 Chronicles 25:8]], it represents the instructor.
Concepts closely associated with מָבוֹן include:
* **Wisdom (חָכְמָה - chokmah - `{{H2451}}`):** The practical application of understanding.
* **Knowledge (דַּעַת - da'ath - `{{H1847}}`):** Factual or experiential acquaintance.
* **Instruction (יָרָה - yarah - `{{H3384}}`):** The act of teaching, often associated with the giving of Torah.
* **Discipleship/Mentorship:** The process of learning from a teacher, as exemplified by the מֵבִין and מָבוֹן pairing.
### Theological Significance
Despite its singular occurrence, מָבוֹן carries significant theological weight through its connection to the pervasive biblical theme of understanding and instruction.
1. **Divine Source of Understanding:** The ability to be "taught" or to receive understanding is ultimately a gift from God. True spiritual discernment and wisdom are not merely human achievements but come from the Lord (e.g., [[Proverbs 2:6]]). To be מָבוֹן implies a receptivity to divine truth and instruction, whether through the Torah, prophetic word, or the wisdom literature.
2. **Importance of Transmission:** The context of [[1 Chronicles 25:8]] highlights the vital role of intergenerational transmission of knowledge and skill within the covenant community. For the sacred service of the temple, it was crucial that both those who possessed understanding (מֵבִין) and those who were being taught (מָבוֹן) were organized. This underscores God's design for His people to learn, grow, and pass on spiritual heritage.
3. **Humility and Receptivity:** To be מָבוֹן implies a posture of humility and willingness to learn. It acknowledges one's need for guidance and instruction, a fundamental attitude for spiritual growth and maturity in faith. This contrasts with pride or self-sufficiency, which hinder true understanding.
4. **Service and Discernment:** In the context of temple service, being "taught" was not merely academic but practical. It involved acquiring the necessary skills and discernment to perform sacred duties appropriately. This suggests that spiritual understanding is not just for intellectual assent but for equipping individuals for faithful service within God's kingdom.
### Summary
מָבוֹן (mâbôwn - `{{H4000}}`) is a rare but insightful Hebrew term, meaning "one who is taught" or "instructed," derived from the root בִּין (to understand, discern). Its sole occurrence in [[1 Chronicles 25:8]] pairs it with מֵבִין ("one who teaches"), illustrating the essential pedagogical relationship between instructor and pupil in the organization of Levitical temple musicians. This highlights the importance of the transmission and reception of knowledge and skill within the community, particularly for sacred service. Theologically, מָבוֹן points to the divine source of true understanding, the necessity of humble receptivity to instruction, and the vital role of intergenerational learning for the spiritual flourishing and faithful service of God's people.
TRV