Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning: The name "Hatsihammenuchoth" is derived from Hebrew, where "Hatsi" means "half" or "division," and "Menuchoth" means "resting places" or "places of rest." Thus, the name can be understood as "the division of the resting places" or "half of the resting places."Biblical Reference: Hatsihammenuchoth is mentioned in the Old Testament in the context of genealogical records and territorial descriptions. It appears in 1 Chronicles 2:52, which states: "Shobal the father of Kiriath-jearim had descendants: Haroeh, half of the Menuhoth" . This passage is part of the genealogical listings of the tribe of Judah, specifically detailing the descendants of Caleb. Historical and Geographical Context: The reference to Hatsihammenuchoth is part of the chronicler's account of the descendants of Judah, focusing on the lineage of Caleb. The mention of "half of the Menuhoth" suggests a division or a specific clan within the broader family group associated with Shobal, who is linked to Kiriath-jearim, a significant city in the tribal territory of Judah. Kiriath-jearim itself holds historical importance as a city that played a role in the narrative of the Ark of the Covenant. It was here that the Ark was kept for a time before being moved to Jerusalem by King David (1 Samuel 7:1-2; 2 Samuel 6:2-3). Theological Significance: The genealogical records in 1 Chronicles serve to establish the heritage and tribal affiliations of the people of Israel, particularly emphasizing the lineage of Judah, from which King David and ultimately Jesus Christ would come. The mention of Hatsihammenuchoth, while brief, contributes to the broader tapestry of Israel's history and God's providential guidance in preserving the line through which the Messiah would be born. Cultural and Social Insights: The division of clans and families, as indicated by terms like "half of the Menuhoth," reflects the social structure of ancient Israelite society, where tribal and familial affiliations were crucial for identity, inheritance, and land distribution. Such divisions also highlight the importance of maintaining detailed genealogical records, which were vital for legal and religious purposes. Conclusion: The entry for Hatsihammenuchoth, though brief in the biblical text, provides insight into the complex social and familial structures of ancient Israel. It underscores the importance of genealogical records in the chronicler's narrative, serving both historical and theological purposes within the broader context of Scripture. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia HATSI-HAMMENUCHOTHhat-si-ham-en-u'-koth: A marginal reading in 1 Chronicles 2:52 the King James Version. It disappears in the Revised Version (British and American), which reads in text, "half of the MENUHOTH" (which see) (Hebrew chatsi ha-menuchoth). Thesaurus Hatsihammenuchoth/h/hatsihammenuchoth.htm - 6k Hatsi-hammenuchoth Hats (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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