חֲמָת (cha.mat)
cha.mat
Hamath
N:N--LQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 29 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N--L
Word Overview
The noun chamath refers to Hamath, a prominent city in ancient Syria located on the Orontes River. Its name derives from a root meaning "wall" or "fortress," reflecting its status as a fortified settlement. This location marked the northern boundary of Israel’s territory in several biblical descriptions, serving as a geographical marker for the extent of the land promised to the descendants of Jacob (Numbers 34:8; Joshua 13:5).
Hamath appears frequently in historical and prophetic texts, often illustrating the reach of imperial power or the scope of Israel’s influence. Kings like David and Solomon extended their authority into this region, while later prophets cited it to demonstrate the vastness of Assyrian conquests (2 Kings 19:13; Amos 6:2). The city is also mentioned as part of the future restored borders of the land in Ezekiel’s vision (Ezekiel 47:15-20).
As a proper noun, chamath functions primarily as a place name rather than a descriptive term. Its repeated appearance underscores its significance in the ancient Near East as a major urban center. The references to Hamath help readers visualize the political and geographical landscape of the biblical world.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Hamath marks the northern edge of the land promised to Israel, appearing in lists that define the full extent of God’s inheritance. When Scripture mentions this city, it often reminds readers of a time when the people lived securely within their borders, under the protection and provision of Yahweh. It stands as a geographical anchor for the concept of a complete and settled home.
Yet the name also appears in contexts of exile and judgment, where armies moved through its streets or captured kings at Riblah. This duality shows that the land itself is not an automatic guarantee of safety; it reflects the spiritual condition of those who dwell there. The boundaries shift when faithfulness fades, reminding us that our true security rests in covenant loyalty rather than territory.
For believers today, this word invites reflection on what constitutes a secure place in God’s hands. It is not merely about physical location but about abiding in the presence of the Lord. Whether in seasons of expansion or contraction, the call remains to trust in His promises and remain faithful to His ways.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 29 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Hamath24×
- and/ from/ Hamath2×
- in/ Hamath1×
- [is] Hamath1×
- Hamath/ towards1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- חֲמָ֑ת8×
- חֲמָ֖ת5×
- חֲמָת֙4×
- חֲמָֽת\׃3×
- חֲמָ֔ת2×
- חֲמָ֣ת\׀1×
- חֲמָ֜ת1×
- חֲמָ֛ת1×
- חֲמָ֑תָ/ה1×
- וּ/מֵֽ/חֲמָת֙1×
- וּ/מֵ֣/חֲמָ֔ת1×
- בַּ/חֲמָֽת\׃1×
Key Verses
-
Numbers 34:8
From Mount Hor you shall mark out to the entrance of Hamath; and the border shall pass by Zedad.
This verse establishes Hamath as the definitive northern boundary of the Promised Land, highlighting its role in defining the scope of God's inheritance for Israel.
-
II Kings 19:13
Where is the king of Hamath, the king of Arpad, and the king of the city of Sepharvaim, of Hena, and Ivvah?’”
The Assyrian king uses Hamath to mock Israel’s God, illustrating how the city became a symbol of imperial power and foreign opposition during times of crisis.
-
I Kings 8:65
So Solomon held the feast at that time, and all Israel with him, a great assembly, from the entrance of Hamath to the brook of Egypt, before Yahweh our God, seven days and seven more days, even fourteen days.
Solomon’s great assembly stretches from Hamath to Egypt, demonstrating the peak of national unity and territorial stability under his reign.