### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻIbrîy**, represented by `{{H5680}}`, is a patronymic term for an Eberite, meaning a descendant of Eber, or a **Hebrew**. It appears 34 times across 32 unique verses in the Bible. This term functions primarily as an identifier of ethnic and national origin, often used by the Israelites themselves or by other nations to distinguish them as a distinct people.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H5680}}` is used in several key contexts, particularly when Israelites interact with other cultures. The first recorded use of the term is to identify "Abram the **Hebrew**" [[Genesis 14:13]]. Later, Joseph is repeatedly identified as a **Hebrew** while in Egypt ([[Genesis 39:14]], [[Genesis 39:17]], [[Genesis 41:12]]), and Jonah uses the term to identify himself to foreign sailors [[Jonah 1:9]]. The phrase "the LORD God of the **Hebrews**" is the formal title used by Moses and Aaron when confronting Pharaoh, tying their national identity directly to their God [[Exodus 3:18]]. The term also marks a distinction from other peoples, such as when the Egyptians considered it an abomination to eat with the **Hebrews** [[Genesis 43:32]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context and identity of the Hebrew people:
* `{{H3478}}` **Yisrâʼêl** (Israel): This is the covenant name for Jacob and his descendants. The terms are sometimes used in parallel, as seen when the **Hebrews** who were with the Philistines joined the **Israelites** under Saul and Jonathan [[1 Samuel 14:21]].
* `{{H5650}}` **ʻebed** (servant): This word is frequently connected with `{{H5680}}` in the context of law and servitude. Specific regulations were established for the treatment and eventual freedom of a **Hebrew** servant [[Exodus 21:2]].
* `{{H4714}}` **Mitsrayim** (Egypt): Much of the **Hebrew** identity in the early narrative is defined in relation to Egypt. The distinction is made clear in social customs and especially in the great deliverance from their bondage there [[Genesis 43:32]].
* `{{H6430}}` **Pᵉlishtîy** (Philistine): The Philistines consistently refer to the Israelites as **Hebrews**, particularly during times of military conflict, highlighting its use as an external designation by an adversary [[1 Samuel 4:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5680}}` is significant, framing the relationship between a specific people and their God.
* **Covenant Identity:** The title "the LORD God of the **Hebrews**" ([[Exodus 7:16]], [[Exodus 9:1]]) establishes that this people's ethnic identity is inextricably linked to their covenant with Yahweh. They are defined by the God they worship.
* **A People Set Apart:** The term is often used to emphasize their distinction from surrounding nations. This is seen socially in the Egyptian refusal to eat with them [[Genesis 43:32]] and militarily in the Philistines' view of them as a foreign enemy [[1 Samuel 13:19]].
* **Liberation and Justice:** The identity of a **Hebrew** carries a theme of divine justice and liberation. This is demonstrated in the laws requiring that a **Hebrew** who is sold into servitude must be set free in the seventh year ([[Exodus 21:2]], [[Deuteronomy 15:12]], [[Jeremiah 34:14]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5680}}` is far more than a simple ethnic label. It is a cornerstone of Israel's identity, especially in its interactions with the outside world. It defines them in moments of oppression, as in the case of the **Hebrew** servant, and in moments of divine representation, as when Moses speaks for the "God of the **Hebrews**." The word encapsulates a unique story of lineage, foreign perception, and a foundational covenant relationship with God.
TRV