Topical Encyclopedia Heth is a significant biblical figure mentioned in the genealogies of the Old Testament. He is recognized as the second son of Canaan, who was the son of Ham, one of Noah's three sons. Heth is notably the progenitor of the Hittites, a prominent ancient people frequently mentioned in the Bible.Biblical References and Genealogy Heth is first introduced in the Table of Nations, a genealogical record found in Genesis 10, which outlines the descendants of Noah's sons after the Flood. Genesis 10:15 states, "Canaan was the father of Sidon his firstborn, and of Heth." This passage establishes Heth's place within the lineage of Canaan, linking him to the broader narrative of the post-Flood world. The descendants of Heth, the Hittites, are mentioned numerous times throughout the Old Testament. They are depicted as one of the Canaanite tribes inhabiting the land promised to Abraham and his descendants. Genesis 23 provides a detailed account of Abraham's interaction with the Hittites when he sought to purchase a burial site for his wife, Sarah. In Genesis 23:3-4 , Abraham addresses the Hittites, saying, "I am a foreigner and stranger among you. Give me a burial site among you so that I can bury my dead." The Hittites in Biblical History The Hittites, as descendants of Heth, played a significant role in the history of the Israelites. They were one of the seven nations residing in Canaan that God commanded the Israelites to dispossess upon entering the Promised Land. In Deuteronomy 7:1 , the Lord instructs, "When the LORD your God brings you into the land you are entering to possess, and He drives out before you many nations—the Hittites, Girgashites, Amorites, Canaanites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites—seven nations larger and stronger than you." Despite this command, the Hittites continued to coexist with the Israelites throughout various periods of biblical history. They are mentioned during the reigns of the Israelite kings, including David and Solomon. For instance, King David's interaction with Uriah the Hittite, one of his mighty warriors, is a notable narrative found in 2 Samuel 11. Cultural and Historical Context The Hittites were a significant ancient Near Eastern civilization, known for their advanced culture and military prowess. Archaeological discoveries have provided insight into their society, revealing a complex and influential empire that extended beyond the biblical narrative. The Hittites are recognized for their contributions to law, governance, and international diplomacy, as evidenced by treaties and records discovered in Hittite archives. In the biblical context, the Hittites are often portrayed as a formidable people, yet they also appear in narratives that highlight individual interactions and relationships with the Israelites. These accounts underscore the diverse and multifaceted nature of the Hittites' presence in the biblical world. Theological Significance From a theological perspective, the mention of Heth and his descendants serves to illustrate the fulfillment of God's promises and the unfolding of His divine plan. The interactions between the Israelites and the Hittites reflect the broader theme of God's sovereignty over nations and His faithfulness to His covenant people. The narrative of Heth and the Hittites is woven into the larger tapestry of biblical history, demonstrating the complexity of human relationships and the overarching purposes of God in the world. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 10:15And Canaan begat Sidon his first born, and Heth, Nave's Topical Index Genesis 23:3,5,7,10,16,18 Genesis 27:46 Genesis 49:32 1 Chronicles 1:13 Strong's Hebrew 2845. Cheth -- a son of Canaan and probably ancestor of the ...... Word Origin of uncertain derivation Definition a son of Canaan and probably ancestor of the Hittites NASB Word Usage Heth (14). Heth. ... /hebrew/2845.htm - 6k Library Chapter x Resources Who were the Hittites? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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