the same as מִבְחָר; Mibchar, an Israelite; Mibhar.
Transliteration:Mibchâr
Pronunciation:mib-khawr'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H4006}}` (Mibchâr) is a proper noun, specifically the name of an individual. Its meaning is directly derived from `{{H4005}}` (mibchâr), which signifies "choice," "select," "best," "excellent," or "picked." This root word, `{{H977}}` (bāchar), fundamentally means "to choose" or "to select." Thus, the name Mibchar carries the connotation of someone who is "chosen," "selected," or "excellent." In ancient Near Eastern cultures, names often conveyed aspirations, characteristics, or divine favor. For an individual to be named Mibchar would suggest that they were considered a prime specimen, a person of distinction, or perhaps someone specifically chosen for a role or purpose.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Mibchar, transliterated as `{{H4006}}`, appears in the Old Testament in the list of David's mighty men. Specifically, he is mentioned in [[1 Chronicles 11:38]] as "Mibhar the son of Hagri" (though some translations render it "Mibhar the son of Hagar"). This individual is counted among the elite warriors who served King David, a group renowned for their valor, strength, and unwavering loyalty. The context of being listed among such an esteemed company reinforces the intrinsic meaning of his name – that he was indeed a "choice" or "picked" man, an excellent warrior worthy of inclusion in David's most distinguished cohort. It is noteworthy that the parallel passage in [[2 Samuel 23:36]] lists "Igal the son of Nathan of Zobah" in a corresponding position, indicating a textual variant or perhaps a different tradition regarding this particular member of David's mighty men. Regardless of the textual complexities, the Chronicler's inclusion of "Mibhar" highlights his significance within the military elite of David's kingdom.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary lexical root for `{{H4006}}` is `{{H977}}` (bāchar), meaning "to choose" or "to select." This root is pervasive throughout the Hebrew Bible, used to describe:
* God's choice of Israel as His special people ([[Deuteronomy 7:6]]).
* God's selection of individuals for leadership or prophetic roles (e.g., Moses, David, prophets).
* The choice of a king ([[1 Samuel 10:24]]).
* The selection of offerings or sacrifices (the "best" of the flock).
* Human choices, whether for good or evil ([[Deuteronomy 30:19]]).
Related concepts include:
* **Election**: The divine act of choosing individuals or groups for a specific purpose or relationship.
* **Excellence**: The quality of being outstanding or superior, reflecting the "best" aspect of the name.
* **Loyalty and Service**: As one of David's mighty men, Mibchar embodies the concept of dedicated service to an anointed leader, a "choice man" in the service of God's chosen king.
* **Valor and Strength**: Traits associated with those "chosen" for military prowess.
### Theological Significance
The name Mibchar, meaning "choice" or "selected," subtly points to a profound theological theme: divine election and the value of human excellence in service. While Mibchar himself is a minor figure, his name serves as a microcosm of God's broader activity of choosing. God "chooses" a people (Israel), a king (David), and individuals for specific tasks and ministries. Mibchar, as a "choice man" among David's elite, represents the human response to such divine or divinely-ordained selection—a life of dedicated service and excellence. His inclusion in the list of mighty men underscores the biblical value placed on those who demonstrate exceptional skill, courage, and faithfulness in their appointed roles. It suggests that even in human endeavors, there is a recognition of "choice" individuals whose lives exemplify qualities worthy of commendation, reflecting a divine pattern of selecting the "best" for His purposes. The theological significance extends to the idea that God uses and empowers individuals who are, by their character and actions, "choice" instruments in His redemptive plan.
### Summary
`{{H4006}}` (Mibchâr) is a proper name meaning "choice," "selected," or "best," derived from the Hebrew root `{{H977}}` (bāchar), "to choose." This name appears in [[1 Chronicles 11:38]], identifying one of King David's valiant mighty men, thereby signifying his exceptional qualities and standing among the elite. While a relatively obscure figure, his name encapsulates the broader biblical theme of divine election and the importance of human excellence and dedication in service. Mibchar stands as a quiet testament to the "choice" individuals whom God raises up and uses, whether for national leadership, prophetic utterance, or the diligent execution of military duties, all contributing to the unfolding of His sovereign plan.
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