Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Meaning: The term "Chebel" is a Hebrew word that appears in various contexts throughout the Old Testament. It is often translated as "cord," "rope," "territory," "region," or "portion." The word carries connotations of measurement, boundary, and inheritance, reflecting its diverse applications in biblical texts. Biblical References and Usage: 1. Physical Cord or Rope: In its most literal sense, Chebel refers to a physical cord or rope. This usage is seen in passages where ropes are used for binding or measuring. For example, in 2 Samuel 8:2, David uses a measuring line (chebel) to determine the fate of the Moabites: "He measured them with a line, making them lie down on the ground; two lines he measured to put to death, and one full line to keep alive." 2. Territory or Region: Chebel is frequently used to denote a portion of land or territory, often in the context of inheritance or division of land among the tribes of Israel. In Deuteronomy 3:13, the term is used to describe the region of Bashan: "The rest of Gilead and all of Bashan, the kingdom of Og, I gave to the half-tribe of Manasseh—all the region of Argob (all of Bashan is called the land of the Rephaim)." 3. Figurative Use: The word is also employed metaphorically to describe the concept of a portion or lot in life, reflecting one's circumstances or fate. In Psalm 16:6, the psalmist expresses contentment with his divinely appointed lot: "The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; surely my inheritance is delightful." 4. Symbol of Distress or Suffering: Chebel can symbolize distress or suffering, akin to being bound or ensnared. This is evident in passages like Psalm 18:4, where the psalmist describes being overwhelmed by the "cords of death": "The cords of death encompassed me; the torrents of chaos overwhelmed me." Theological Significance: Chebel, in its various uses, underscores themes of divine providence, inheritance, and the boundaries set by God. The allocation of land to the tribes of Israel, marked by chebel, signifies God's sovereign distribution of blessings and responsibilities. The metaphorical use of chebel to describe life's circumstances highlights the belief in God's active role in determining the course of human lives. Cultural and Historical Context: In ancient Israel, the concept of land and inheritance was central to identity and survival. The use of chebel to describe land divisions reflects the agrarian society's reliance on clearly defined boundaries for maintaining order and ensuring equitable distribution among the tribes. The imagery of cords and ropes also resonates with the daily life of an ancient people familiar with the practical uses of such tools in agriculture and construction. Conclusion: The term Chebel, with its rich and varied applications, offers insight into the biblical worldview concerning divine order, human destiny, and the tangible realities of life in ancient Israel. Through its literal and metaphorical uses, Chebel serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of physical and spiritual realms in the biblical narrative. Smith's Bible Dictionary Chebel(cord), one of the singular topographical terms in which the ancient Hebrew language abounded. We find it always attached to the region of Argob. (3:4,13,14; 1 Kings 4:13) Strong's Hebrew 2256. chebel -- cord, territory, band... 2255, 2256. chebel. 2256a . cord, territory, band. Transliteration: chebel Phonetic Spelling: (kheh'-bel) Short Definition: band. ... 2255, 2256. chebel. 2256a ... /hebrew/2256.htm - 6k 2256a. chebel -- cord, territory, band 2256c. chebel -- destruction 2256b. chebel -- a pain, pang 8458. tachbulah -- direction, counsel 2259. chobel -- sailor 2260a. chibbel -- probably a mast Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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