### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Çibbᵉkay**, represented by `{{H5444}}`, identifies an Israelite warrior named **Sibbecai** or **Sibbechai**. The name itself is defined as "copse-like." It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses**, where he is noted as a Hushathite and one of David's distinguished men, renowned for his martial prowess and his role as a military commander.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, **Sibbecai** `{{H5444}}` is primarily chronicled for his heroic acts in **battle** `{{H4421}}` against the **Philistines** `{{H6430}}`. He is specifically credited as the one who **slew** `{{H5221}}` Saph, who was one of "the **sons** `{{H3211}}` of the **giant** `{{H7497}}`" [[2 Samuel 21:18]]. A parallel account reinforces his valor, stating that **Sibbechai** `{{H5444}}` **slew** `{{H5221}}` Sippai, another of "the **children** `{{H3211}}` of the **giant** `{{H7497}}`," which resulted in the enemy being **subdued** `{{H3665}}` [[1 Chronicles 20:4]]. Beyond these battlefield feats, he held a significant leadership position as "the eighth captain for the eighth month," commanding a course of twenty-four thousand men [[1 Chronicles 27:11]]. His inclusion as "Sibbecai the Hushathite" in a list of mighty men further solidifies his status [[1 Chronicles 11:29]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are crucial to understanding Sibbecai's role and actions:
* `{{H5221}}` **nâkâh** (to strike, slay): This primitive root describes Sibbecai's decisive action. The term means to "to strike ... kill, make (slaughter), ... slay(-er, -ing), smite(-r, -ing)." The record states he **slew** Saph and Sippai ([[2 Samuel 21:18]], [[1 Chronicles 20:4]]).
* `{{H4421}}` **milchâmâh** (a battle, war): This word establishes the context for Sibbecai's heroism, defined as "a battle ... war." His feats occurred during a **battle** with the Philistines at Gob and a **war** at Gezer ([[2 Samuel 21:18]], [[1 Chronicles 20:4]]).
* `{{H7497}}` **râphâʼ** (a giant): This term identifies the formidable adversaries Sibbecai confronted, defined as "a giant." His renown comes from defeating men who were "of the sons" and "of the children" of the **giant** ([[2 Samuel 21:18]], [[1 Chronicles 20:4]]).
### Theological Significance
The accounts of Sibbecai carry significant thematic weight, illustrating key principles of faith and service.
* **Overcoming Formidable Foes:** Sibbecai is remembered for personally confronting and killing descendants of the **giant** `{{H7497}}` [[2 Samuel 21:18]]. This act highlights the theme of God empowering his warriors to defeat enemies that appear overwhelming, a recurring motif in Israel's conflicts.
* **Individual Contribution to National Victory:** His heroism had direct consequences for the nation. After he **slew** `{{H5221}}` Sippai, the record states that the Philistines "were **subdued**{H3665}" [[1 Chronicles 20:4]]. This illustrates how the courage of one individual can contribute directly to the deliverance and security of the community.
* **Faithful Service and Leadership:** Beyond his battlefield valor, Sibbecai served as a captain responsible for a course of twenty-four thousand men [[1 Chronicles 27:11]]. This demonstrates the importance of loyal and structured leadership within the kingdom, showing that his service extended from singular combat to organized military administration.
### Summary
In summary, **Sibbecai** `{{H5444}}` is presented as far more than just a name in a military roster. He embodies the ideal of a valiant Israelite warrior who is both courageous in battle and dependable in service. His story, though brief, powerfully illustrates how individual acts of faith and strength, like the defeat of giants, integrate with loyal leadership to secure victory and order for God's people. He stands as a figure of both heroic action and faithful administration.
TRV