### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼArbîy**, represented by `{{H701}}`, is a patrial term meaning **Arbite**, or a native of a place named Arab. This specific descriptor appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire biblical record, indicating its highly specialized use.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole biblical appearance of `{{H701}}` is in a list of King David's mighty men. In [[2 Samuel 23:35]], the word is used to identify a warrior named Paarai. The text states, "Paarai the **Arbite**," directly linking this individual to his place of origin. This usage serves as a geographical identifier, a common practice in biblical genealogies and lists to provide context for a person's background.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of this word's single appearance links it to several other names and descriptors:
* `{{H6474}}` **Paʻăray**: This is the proper name of the individual identified as the Arbite. The name is defined as "Paarai, an Israelite" [[2 Samuel 23:35]].
* `{{H2695}}` **Chetsrôw**: This is the name of another of David's mighty men, appearing in the same list as either Hezro or Hezrai ([[2 Samuel 23:35]], [[1 Chronicles 11:37]]).
* `{{H3761}}` **Karmᵉlîy**: This is another patrial term, meaning "Carmelite," used in the same verse to describe Hezrai/Hezro. It functions identically to Arbite, designating a person's home region [[2 Samuel 23:35]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H701}}` is not theological but historical and geographical. Its importance can be understood through its function in the text:
* **Geographical Identification:** The primary role of "Arbite" is to specify the hometown of Paarai, one of the elite warriors who served King David.
* **Historical Detail:** Its inclusion in the list of mighty men in [[2 Samuel 23:35]] underscores the detailed nature of the biblical record, which often preserves the origins of even lesser-known individuals.
* **Patrial Naming Convention:** The term is a clear example of a gentilic or patrial name, used alongside others like "Carmelite" to form a complete picture of the diverse origins of the men who formed David's inner circle.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H701}}` **ʼArbîy** is a rare biblical term with a single, precise function. It acts as a geographical label, "Arbite," to denote the origin of Paarai, one of David's distinguished warriors listed in [[2 Samuel 23:35]]. Its value lies not in broad theological meaning but in the specific historical detail it provides, contributing to the rich texture of the biblical narrative.
TRV