from סָבַךְ; copse-like; Sibbecai, an Israelite; Sibbecai, Sibbechai.
Transliteration:Çibbᵉkay
Pronunciation:sib-bek-ah'-ee
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word `{{H5444}}` (Sibbecai), transliterated as *Çibbᵉkay*, is primarily a proper noun, a personal name. Its base definition indicates a derivation from the root `{{H5440}}` (savak), which signifies "to intertwine," "to entangle," or "to weave together." This root is associated with dense, interwoven vegetation, such as a thicket or copse. Therefore, the name "Sibbecai" inherently carries the semantic nuance of being "copse-like" or "thicket-like," suggesting something dense, tangled, or perhaps robust. While the name itself identifies an individual, its etymological background might subtly allude to characteristics such as strength, resilience, or perhaps a physical appearance (e.g., thick, matted hair), or even a connection to a place known for its dense foliage.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
`{{H5444}}` (Sibbecai) appears four times in the Old Testament, exclusively as the name of an Israelite warrior, Sibbecai the Hushathite.
* In [[2 Samuel 21:18]], Sibbecai the Hushathite is credited with striking down Saph, one of the descendants of the Philistine giants, during a battle with the Philistines at Gob. This act is presented as one of several heroic deeds by David's men against the giant warriors.
* [[1 Chronicles 11:29]] lists Sibbecai the Hushathite among David's "mighty men," specifically one of the "Thirty" (or "Thirty-Seven"). This inclusion underscores his elite status and renowned valor within David's army.
* [[1 Chronicles 20:4]] reiterates Sibbecai the Hushathite's feat of striking down Saph, here specified as occurring at Gezer. This parallel account confirms the significance of his victory over a formidable enemy.
* [[1 Chronicles 27:11]] further details Sibbecai's role, identifying him as the commander of the eighth division of the army, serving for the eighth month. This demonstrates his high rank and leadership responsibility within David's organized military structure.
Across these occurrences, Sibbecai is consistently portrayed as a courageous, effective, and high-ranking warrior, instrumental in Israel's victories against their Philistine adversaries.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the root `{{H5440}}` (savak), from which Sibbecai's name is derived. This root is found in words like *sebek* (סְבַךְ), meaning "thicket" (e.g., [[Genesis 22:13]], where the ram for Abraham's sacrifice is caught in a thicket). This connection reinforces the "copse-like" or "intertwined" imagery.
Contextually, Sibbecai is closely associated with:
* The "mighty men" (גִּבֹּרִים, *gibborim*, `{{H1368}}`) of David, an elite group of warriors known for their strength, bravery, and loyalty.
* The Philistine giants, particularly the descendants of Rapha (e.g., Saph, Goliath), against whom Sibbecai and his comrades fought. Their defeat symbolized the triumph of Israel over their enemies.
* Other notable warriors like Elhanan, Jonathan (David's nephew), and other members of the "Thirty" who shared similar heroic exploits.
The concept of divine assistance in battle and the valor of God's chosen warriors are also implicitly related themes.
### Theological Significance
While `{{H5444}}` (Sibbecai) is a proper name, his actions and inclusion in the biblical narrative carry theological weight. Sibbecai's role as a "mighty man" highlights God's provision of strong and courageous individuals to defend His people and advance His purposes. His victory over Saph, a giant, is not merely a military triumph but an instance of God's people overcoming seemingly insurmountable odds, often presented as a divine enabling against pagan forces. The detailed accounts of David's mighty men, including Sibbecai, serve to underscore the value placed on faithfulness, courage, and service within God's covenant community. Their exploits demonstrate how God uses human instruments, even those whose names might connote humble or descriptive origins, to execute His plan of deliverance and establish His kingdom. Sibbecai's life is a testament to the fact that every individual, regardless of their background, can be used mightily by God in the unfolding of redemptive history.
### Summary
`{{H5444}}` (Sibbecai) is a personal name derived from the Hebrew root `{{H5440}}` (savak), meaning "to intertwine" or "copse-like." In the Old Testament, Sibbecai the Hushathite is consistently presented as a valiant and high-ranking warrior in King David's army. He is famously credited with striking down the Philistine giant Saph, an act recorded in both [[2 Samuel 21:18]] and [[1 Chronicles 20:4]]. Sibbecai is listed among David's elite "mighty men" ([[1 Chronicles 11:29]]) and held a significant leadership position as a commander of an army division ([[1 Chronicles 27:11]]). Theologically, Sibbecai's life exemplifies God's provision of courageous individuals for the protection of Israel and the fulfillment of His divine plan, underscoring the theme of triumph over formidable adversaries through courageous service and divine empowerment.
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