### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻĂvîyth**, represented by `{{H5762}}`, refers to a specific location in Palestine named **Avith**. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Based on its root, the word carries a potential meaning of "ruin." Its use in scripture, however, is strictly as a proper noun for a particular place.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H5762}}` is used exclusively to identify a specific place. It is mentioned in the genealogy of the kings of Edom as the name of the **city** of Hadad, the son of Bedad [[Genesis 36:35]]. This same account is repeated, identifying **Avith** as Hadad's city after he defeated Midian in the field of Moab [[1 Chronicles 1:46]]. The word solely functions as a geographical identifier within a historical lineage.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help establish the context of **Avith**:
* `{{H5892}}` **ʻîyr** (city): This word defines the type of place **Avith** was. In both of its biblical appearances, **Avith** is explicitly called the **city** of Hadad [[Genesis 36:35]]. The term **city** implies a guarded or established settlement [[Psalms 127:1]].
* `{{H8034}}` **shêm** (name): This term is used to introduce the proper noun **Avith**. The text states, "the **name** of his city was Avith" [[1 Chronicles 1:46]], establishing it as a unique identifier. A **name** carries implications of an appellation or a memorial of individuality [[Isaiah 9:6]].
### Theological Significance
While `{{H5762}}` is a geographical name, its context and related terms carry theological weight.
* **Historical Specificity:** The inclusion of **Avith** within the royal genealogy of Edom highlights the Bible's detailed account of history, not just for Israel but for surrounding nations as well. It specifies the "name" `{{H8034}}` of the "city" `{{H5892}}` of a particular king [[Genesis 36:35]], anchoring the narrative in a specific time and place.
* **Divine Authority Over Places:** The concept of a **city** `{{H5892}}` in scripture is often linked to divine purpose. A **city** can be a place of God's special presence, like the "city of God" [[Psalms 46:4]], or a place under His protection [[Psalms 127:1]]. The naming of **Avith** serves as a reminder that all places, and the rulers within them, exist within the scope of God's sovereign historical record.
* **Identity and Renown:** The giving of a **name** `{{H8034}}` is significant. Hadad's identity is tied to his city, **Avith**. In a broader biblical sense, a **name** signifies character and reputation, and can even be linked to fame or renown [[Zephaniah 3:19]]. The Lord Himself is identified by His **name**, "Holy" [[Isaiah 57:15]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5762}}` **ʻĂvîyth** is a specific place name, appearing only to identify the **city** of Hadad in the genealogies of Genesis and 1 Chronicles. While its direct use is limited, its context illustrates the Bible's precision in recording historical and geographical details. Through its association with related terms like **city** `{{H5892}}` and **name** `{{H8034}}`, it serves as a small but clear example of how every recorded detail contributes to the broader narrative of God's sovereign oversight of all peoples and places.
TRV