Chezib, also known as Achzib, is a location mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Genesis. It is recognized as the birthplace of Shelah, the third son of Judah and his Canaanite wife, the daughter of Shua. The significance of Chezib in biblical history is primarily tied to the narrative of Judah and his family lineage.

Biblical Reference:

The primary biblical reference to Chezib is found in Genesis 38:5, which states: "Yet again she gave birth to a son and named him Shelah; it was at Chezib that she gave birth to him." . This verse situates Chezib within the broader narrative of Judah's family, highlighting its role as the birthplace of Shelah.

Historical and Geographical Context:

Chezib is believed to have been located in the region of ancient Canaan, which corresponds to parts of modern-day Israel and Palestine. The exact location of Chezib is not definitively known, but it is often associated with the area near Adullam, a city mentioned in the same chapter of Genesis. Some scholars suggest that Chezib may be identified with the site of Khirbet 'Ain el-Kezbeh, although this remains speculative.

Cultural and Theological Significance:

In the context of the Genesis narrative, Chezib serves as a backdrop to the unfolding account of Judah's family, which is marked by themes of promise, covenant, and the complexities of human relationships. The birth of Shelah at Chezib is a pivotal moment, as it sets the stage for later events involving Judah's descendants, including the eventual emergence of the tribe of Judah as a significant entity in Israel's history.

Theologically, the mention of Chezib underscores the importance of lineage and heritage in the biblical narrative. Judah's line, through Shelah and his brothers, is integral to the unfolding account of God's covenant with His people. The tribe of Judah would later become one of the most prominent tribes of Israel, with significant figures such as King David and, ultimately, Jesus Christ, tracing their ancestry back to Judah.

Chezib in Later Traditions:

While Chezib itself does not feature prominently in later biblical texts, its mention in Genesis contributes to the rich tapestry of locations that form the backdrop of Israel's patriarchal history. The genealogical records and tribal allotments found in books such as Chronicles and Joshua continue to reflect the importance of Judah's lineage, of which Shelah is a part.

In summary, Chezib's role as the birthplace of Shelah places it within the foundational narratives of the Old Testament, contributing to the understanding of Judah's family dynamics and the broader account of God's people.Genesis 38:5
And she yet again conceived, and bore a son; and called his name Shelah: and he was at Chezib, when she bore him.
Nave's Topical Index

Chapter xxxviii
... of the descendants of Shelah of the tribe of Judah (Numbers 26:20), that they might
know their birthplace or ancestral city. Since "Chezib," or Achzib, could ...
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