Chabris is a biblical figure mentioned in the deuterocanonical book of Judith, which is included in the Septuagint and the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox Christian Old Testaments but is not part of the Hebrew Bible or the Protestant canon. The Book of Judith is a historical narrative that tells the account of a Jewish widow named Judith who saves her people from the Assyrian general Holofernes.

Biblical Context

Chabris is identified as one of the elders of the city of Bethulia, a town that plays a central role in the narrative of the Book of Judith. Bethulia is under siege by the Assyrian army led by Holofernes, and the city’s inhabitants are in a state of despair due to the lack of water and the overwhelming military threat.

Role in the Book of Judith

In Judith 6:15, Chabris is mentioned alongside other leaders of Bethulia, including Uzziah and Charmis. These elders are responsible for the governance and decision-making of the city during the crisis. The Berean Standard Bible does not include the Book of Judith, but the narrative describes how these leaders are approached by Achior, an Ammonite who has been expelled by Holofernes for speaking in favor of the Israelites. Achior warns the people of Bethulia about the impending danger and the might of the Assyrian forces.

Chabris, along with the other elders, listens to Achior’s account and takes his words seriously. They bring him into the city, where he is given hospitality and protection. The elders, including Chabris, are depicted as being in a difficult position, trying to maintain the morale of the people while facing the dire threat of the Assyrian siege.

Significance

Chabris, as an elder of Bethulia, represents the leadership and responsibility of the Jewish community during a time of crisis. His role, though not extensively detailed, is significant in the context of the narrative as it highlights the challenges faced by the leaders of Bethulia in making decisions for the welfare of their people. The elders' decision to listen to Achior and to allow Judith to carry out her plan demonstrates their openness to divine intervention and their faith in God’s deliverance.

The account of Judith, including the role of Chabris and the other elders, is often interpreted as a tale of faith, courage, and divine providence. It serves as an example of how God can use unexpected means and individuals to bring about salvation for His people.CHABRIS

ka'-bris (Abris, Chabreis): Son of Gothoniel, one of the three rulers of Bethulia in the time of Judith (Judith 6:15; 8:10; 10:6).

Chabris
...CHABRIS. ka'-bris (Abris, Chabreis): Son of Gothoniel, one of the three rulers
of Bethulia in the time of Judith (Judith 6:15; 8:10; 10:6). ...
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Gothoniel
... GOTHONIEL. go-tho'-ni-el (Gothoniel): The same as Othniel, father of Chabris who
was one of the governors of the city of Bethulia (Judith 6:15). ...
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Cetab
Cetab. Cessation, Cetab. Chabris . Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia CETAB.
se'-tab. See KETAB. Cessation, Cetab. Chabris . Reference Bible.
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Chadias

/c/chadias.htm - 6k

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