Lexical Summary chabar: To join, unite, bind together, ally Original Word: חֲבַר Strong's Exhaustive Concordance companion, fellow (Aramaic) from a root corresponding to chabar; an associate -- companion, fellow. see HEBREW chabar NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Origin(Aramaic) corresponding to chabar Definition fellow, comrade NASB Translation friends (3). Topical Lexicon Meaning and Nuance The term designates a close companion or trusted friend. It conveys more than casual acquaintance; it speaks of a covenant-like solidarity that stands firm under pressure. Scriptural Context All three appearances occur in the narrative of Daniel chapter 2. Twice the word refers to Daniel’s circle of confidants—Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah—and once to the wider group of exiles who faced execution with Daniel. Amid the threat issued by King Nebuchadnezzar, the text stresses that Daniel “went to his house and informed his friends” (Daniel 2:17) and urged them to “seek mercy from the God of heaven” (Daniel 2:18). Their relationship is marked by spiritual unity, corporate prayer, and mutual commitment. Portrait of Godly Companionship in Daniel 1. Shared Conviction: The companions had earlier resolved not to defile themselves with royal food (Daniel 1:8). Their joint stand illustrates how righteousness is strengthened in fellowship. Historical Backdrop: Babylonian Court and Exile Community The Babylonian exile dismantled Israel’s social structures. In a foreign court, godly companionship became a lifeline preserving covenant identity. The term highlights the emergence of small faithful communities within hostile environments—a pattern echoed in later synagogue worship, early church gatherings, and house fellowships throughout history. Canonical Significance By spotlighting faithful friendship in Daniel, Scripture affirms that God often works through small bands of believers. The motif anticipates Jesus sending disciples “two by two” and the apostolic practice of ministering in teams. The Old Testament precedent underscores the consistency of divine strategy: companionship undergirds witness in the world’s power centers. Practical Implications for Today • Cultivate prayer partnerships that respond to crisis with corporate intercession. Related Themes Friendship and covenant (1 Samuel 18:3–4); the power of two or three witnesses (Matthew 18:19–20); exhortation to mutual encouragement (Hebrews 10:24–25). Forms and Transliterations וְחַבְר֔וֹהִי וְחַבְר֖וֹהִי וחברוהי חַבְר֖וֹהִי חברוהי chavRohi ḥaḇ·rō·w·hî ḥaḇrōwhî vechavRohi wə·ḥaḇ·rō·w·hî wəḥaḇrōwhîLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel TextsEnglishman's Concordance Daniel 2:13 HEB: וּבְע֛וֹ דָּנִיֵּ֥אל וְחַבְר֖וֹהִי לְהִתְקְטָלָֽה׃ פ NAS: for Daniel and his friends to kill KJV: Daniel and his fellows to be slain. INT: looked Daniel and his friends to kill Daniel 2:17 Daniel 2:18 3 Occurrences |
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