### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Shaʻalbîym**, represented by `{{H8169}}`, is a proper name for **Shaalbim or Shaalabbin, a place in Palestine**. Its name is derived from a word meaning "fox-holes." It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible, identifying a specific location significant in Israel's territorial allotment and regional conflicts.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H8169}}` first appears as a town listed in the territory of Dan [[Joshua 19:42]]. However, its possession was contested. The Amorites initially refused to relinquish control, and would **dwell** in **Shaalbim** [[Judges 1:35]]. The narrative states that the "hand of the house of Joseph prevailed," and the Amorites were eventually subjected to forced labor. Later, during the reign of Solomon, **Shaalbim** is mentioned as part of an administrative district, indicating its full integration into the kingdom of Israel [[1 Kings 4:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from the account in [[Judges 1:35]] illuminate the context of this location's story:
* `{{H567}}` **ʼĔmôrîy** (Amorite): This term identifies one of the Canaanitish tribes that occupied the land before Israel's arrival. The **Amorites** are noted for their resistance to the Israelites in **Shaalbim** [[Judges 1:35]], and Israel was warned not to serve the gods of the **Amorites** in whose land they came to dwell [[Joshua 24:15]].
* `{{H3427}}` **yâshab** (to sit down, dwell, remain): This word is central to the conflict, as the Amorites would **dwell** in the region [[Judges 1:35]]. The ability to **dwell** securely in a place is a sign of control and blessing, as seen when it is described as good for brethren to **dwell** together in unity [[Psalms 133:1]].
* `{{H3027}}` **yâd** (a hand): This word often signifies power and control. It was the **hand** of the house of Joseph that ultimately prevailed over the Amorites in Shaalbim [[Judges 1:35]]. The Bible frequently refers to God's **hand** being with His people for good [[Ezra 8:22]].
* `{{H4522}}` **maç** (a tax in the form of forced labor, tribute): This describes the final status of the Amorites in Shaalbim, who became tributaries [[Judges 1:35]]. This outcome reflects a principle where the diligent bear rule, while the slothful are put under **tribute** [[Proverbs 12:24]].
### Theological Significance
The history of `{{H8169}}` provides key insights into the settlement of Canaan.
* **A Contested Inheritance:** While Shaalbim was allotted to Israel by divine command [[Joshua 19:42]], its possession was not immediate. It represents the broader struggle Israel faced in taking hold of the promises of God.
* **Assertion of Israelite Authority:** The conflict described in [[Judges 1:35]], where the "hand of the house of Joseph prevailed," demonstrates that possessing the land required active faith and military effort to overcome existing powers like the Amorites.
* **From Conflict to Administration:** The town's inclusion in Solomon's administrative districts [[1 Kings 4:9]] marks its transition from a contested borderland to a stable, integrated part of the Israelite kingdom, signifying the consolidation of the nation.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8169}}` **Shaʻalbîym** is more than a geographical marker. Its brief scriptural mentions trace a significant narrative arc, reflecting Israel's journey from promised inheritance to physical possession and established governance. The story of Shaalbim encapsulates the challenges, conflicts, and ultimate sovereignty involved in the formation of the nation of Israel in its designated land.
TRV