### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻAvvîym**, represented by `{{H5761}}`, refers to a place in Palestine named Avim, as well as the people who inhabited it, the Avites. The term is defined as the plural of עַוִּי and appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible, providing a glimpse into the early inhabitants of the land before and during the time of Joshua.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H5761}}` is used to describe both a people and a place. The Avims are identified as a people who dwelt{H3427} in Hazerim{H2699} and were later destroyed{H8045} by the Caphtorims{H3732} who came forth from Caphtor{H3731} and took over their land [[Deuteronomy 2:23]]. The Avites are also listed alongside the five lords of the Philistines in a territory counted{H2803} to the Canaanite{H3669} [[Joshua 13:3]]. As a location, Avim is simply named in a list of places that includes Parah{H6511} and Ophrah{H6084} [[Joshua 18:23]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context surrounding the Avvim:
* `{{H3732}}` **Kaphtôrîy** (Caphtorims): These are the people who came forth from Caphtor{H3731} and destroyed the Avims, dwelling in their land afterward [[Deuteronomy 2:23]]. They are identified as a native of Caphtor.
* `{{H2699}}` **Chătsêrîym** (Hazerim): This is the name of the place in Palestine where the Avims dwelt{H3427} before being displaced [[Deuteronomy 2:23]]. The term itself means "yards."
* `{{H8045}}` **shâmad** (destroyed): This primitive root describes the fate of the Avims. The text states that the Caphtorims destroyed{H8045} them and took their territory [[Deuteronomy 2:23]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H5761}}` is primarily historical and geographical, detailing the chain of inhabitants in a specific region of Palestine.
* **Early Inhabitants:** The Avims are presented as an early people who occupied the land from Hazerim{H2699} to Azzah{H5804} [[Deuteronomy 2:23]].
* **Conquest and Displacement:** Their story is a clear example of displacement, as they were destroyed{H8045} by the invading Caphtorims{H3732}, who then settled in their place [[Deuteronomy 2:23]].
* **Geographical Boundary Marker:** The mention of the Avites helps define the borders of the land counted{H2803} to the Canaanite{H3669}, alongside the territories of the Philistine lords [[Joshua 13:3]]. The place name Avim also serves as a landmark [[Joshua 18:23]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5761}}` provides a concise but important historical reference. As **ʻAvvîym**, it identifies an early people in Palestine, and as **Avim**, it marks a location. Though mentioned only three times, the term captures a moment of transition, documenting a people who were displaced by another group, the Caphtorims, which contributes to the broader biblical narrative of conquest and settlement in the promised land.
TRV