dual from a root corresponding to סְבַר; double hope; Sibrajim, a place in Syria; Sibraim.
Transliteration:Çibrayim
Pronunciation:sib-rah'-yim
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H5453}}` (Çibrayim) is a proper noun, specifically a place name, derived from a root corresponding to סְבַר (sabar), which conveys the idea of "to hope" or "to expect." The form of `{{H5453}}` is dual, suggesting a "double" or "twofold" aspect. Thus, the etymological meaning of Sibraim is "Double Hope." This etymological insight transforms what might otherwise be a mere geographical marker into a term imbued with significant conceptual weight, suggesting a place associated with an intensified or dual expectation. While the root סְבַר itself is not widely attested in the biblical corpus in this direct form, its semantic range is clearly linked to the broader concept of hope and anticipation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{H5453}}` appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in the book of Ezekiel:
* [[Ezekiel 47:16]]: "Hamath, Berothah, Sibraim, which is between the border of Damascus and the border of Hamath; Hazar-hatticon, which is by the coast of Hauran."
In this solitary occurrence, Sibraim is listed as a geographical marker within the detailed prophetic vision of the restored land of Israel. Ezekiel 47 describes the boundaries of the land to be inherited by the twelve tribes in the eschatological era. Sibraim's precise location is given as "between the border of Damascus and the border of Hamath," placing it strategically in what would be the northern frontier of the promised territory. The specificity of its location within a divine blueprint for the future land allocation underscores its importance, not merely as an existing town, but as a named point within God's prophetic design. The inclusion of a place named "Double Hope" within such a significant boundary description invites deeper theological reflection on the nature of the restoration itself.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary conceptual link for `{{H5453}}` is to the broader biblical understanding of "hope." While the direct root סְבַר is rare, its meaning resonates with other more common Hebrew terms for hope and expectation:
* `{{H8615}}` (tiqvah): This noun frequently denotes "hope" or "expectation," often with a sense of confident anticipation, as seen in [[Job 11:18]] or [[Psalm 71:5]].
* `{{H3176}}` (yachal): A verb meaning "to wait," "to hope," or "to expect," often implying patient endurance in reliance upon God, as in [[Psalm 39:7]] or [[Lamentations 3:21]].
* `{{H2620}}` (chasah): While primarily meaning "to seek refuge" or "to trust," it often carries the nuance of placing one's hope in God, as in [[Psalm 7:1]] or [[Psalm 57:1]].
The dual nature of Sibraim's name also connects it to the concept of "doubling" or "twofoldness" in Hebrew thought, which can signify intensity, completeness, or a dual aspect of a concept. Its placement as a border town also links it to broader themes of divine boundaries, territorial inheritance, and the fulfillment of covenantal promises regarding the land of Israel.
### Theological Significance
The unique name "Double Hope" for a place situated on the northern border of the eschatological land of Israel in Ezekiel's vision carries profound theological significance.
1. **Reinforced Assurance:** The "double" aspect of hope could signify an intensified, certain, or abundant hope concerning the future restoration of Israel. It suggests that the hope is not fleeting or singular, but firmly established and comprehensive.
2. **Dual Aspect of Divine Promise:** It might point to the multifaceted nature of God's promises, perhaps encompassing both physical restoration (the land) and spiritual renewal (the temple and God's presence), or the fulfillment of promises made to both Abraham and later generations.
3. **Boundary of Expectation:** As a border marker, Sibraim could represent a spiritual and geographical point where the hope of God's people is firmly anchored, marking the extent of divine provision and the secure establishment of His covenant. Even the very borders of the promised land are imbued with the character of divine hope.
4. **Prophetic Certainty:** In the context of Ezekiel's often challenging prophecies, the naming of a specific border point as "Double Hope" serves as a powerful affirmation of the unwavering certainty of God's ultimate plan for His people and their land. It underscores that the future, even at its furthest boundaries, is saturated with divine promise and expectation.
### Summary
`{{H5453}}` (Çibrayim) is a unique Hebrew proper noun, a geographical place name appearing once in [[Ezekiel 47:16]], where it marks a point on the northern border of the future, divinely apportioned land of Israel. Its etymological meaning, "Double Hope," derived from a root related to "to hope" in its dual form, provides significant theological depth. This naming suggests an intensified, certain, or multifaceted hope associated with the eschatological restoration of Israel. Situated strategically between Damascus and Hamath, Sibraim stands as a symbolic marker within God's prophetic blueprint, underscoring the unwavering assurance and abundant nature of His promises concerning the land and the future of His people. The very boundaries of God's promised inheritance are thus infused with the profound reality of divine hope.
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