The Hebrew name ʼArbaʻ, represented by H704, refers to a specific individual among the Anakim. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. The name's significance is tied directly to its use as a genealogical marker for the Anakim and as the original namesake for the city that would later be known as Hebron.
In the biblical narrative, ʼArbaʻ H704 is identified as the "father of Anak" Joshua 15:13. His name is preserved in the original name of Hebron, called the "city of Arba" Joshua 21:11. This city, located in the hill country of Judah, was a significant location during the Israelite conquest of Canaan. It was given to Caleb the son of Jephunneh as his inheritance, according to the Lord's commandment to Joshua Joshua 15:13.
Several related words provide crucial context for understanding the role of ʼArbaʻ:
- H1 ʼâb (father): This term, defined as a "father, in a literal and immediate, or figurative and remote application," establishes Arba's position as the patriarch of Anak Joshua 21:11.
- H6061 ʻÂnâq (Anak): Defined as "Anak, a Canaanite," this is the direct descendant of Arba. The children of Anak were known to dwell in Hebron Numbers 13:22.
- H2275 Chebrôwn (Hebron): This is the later name for the "city of Arba" Joshua 15:13. Hebron became a prominent city in Judah and was given to Caleb as an inheritance Joshua 14:13.
- H7153 Qiryath ʼArbaʻ (Kirjath-arba): This is the full name of the city, meaning "city of Arba." The Bible explicitly states, "the name of Hebron before was Kirjatharba" Joshua 14:15, directly linking the place to its founding father.
The significance of ʼArbaʻ is rooted in the historical and geographical context of the conquest of Canaan.
- Patriarch of the Anakim: Arba is primarily identified as the progenitor of a formidable people. He is described as "a great man among the Anakims" Joshua 14:15, establishing the legacy of the people Caleb would later displace.
- Original Naming of Hebron: The name ʼArbaʻ is foundational to the identity of one of Canaan's most ancient cities. The connection between "the city of Arba" Joshua 21:11 and its later identity as Hebron provides a historical layer to the land being inherited by Judah.
- Symbol of the Former Inhabitants: Arba and his descendants, the Anakim, represent the powerful pre-Israelite inhabitants of the Promised Land. The transfer of the city of Arba to Caleb demonstrates the fulfillment of God's promise to give the land to the Israelites Joshua 15:13.
In summary, ʼArbaʻ H704 is the name of a notable patriarch whose identity is intrinsically linked to the land. Though mentioned only twice, his name establishes the lineage of the Anakim and the original identity of the ancient city of Hebron, also known as Kirjath-arba. His presence in the text serves to anchor the narrative of the conquest in a specific time and place, highlighting the significance of the inheritance given to Caleb and the tribe of Judah.
TRV