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חֲמַת רַבָּה (cha.mat rab.bah)

cha.mat rab.bah

Hamath the great

H2579 · Hebrew · Old Testament · 1 verses

N:N--L

Quick Reference

Language
Biblical Hebrew
Testament
Old Testament
Occurrences
1 verses
Root
—
Part of speech
N:N--L

Word Overview

The phrase chamat rabbah translates to "Hamath the Great," identifying a specific ancient city located in the northern reaches of the Levant. It serves as an alternative name for the more commonly referenced Hamath, distinguished here by the adjective rabbah, which signifies its size, importance, or perhaps its imposing fortifications.

This designation appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, found in Amos 6:2. The prophet uses this distant northern landmark to illustrate the extent of Israel’s borders, challenging his audience to consider how far their territory stretched from Dan to Beersheba by comparing it to this significant northern city.

The etymology suggests a meaning related to an enclosure or fortress, hinting at its strategic military role in the region. By invoking "Hamath the Great," the text emphasizes the magnitude of the land God had given them, using a well-known urban center to frame the scope of their national identity and divine inheritance.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The phrase 'Hamath the great' appears only once in Scripture, in Amos 6:2. The prophet uses this distant northern city to illustrate the vast extent of Israel's borders. By naming such a significant landmark, the text emphasizes the magnitude of the land God had given them. It serves as a reminder of divine inheritance and national identity.

For your faith, this word highlights how God defines boundaries and blessings. When you consider the scope of His provision, it can bring comfort and perspective. The mention of Hamath reminds us that our heritage is rooted in real history and tangible promises. It invites reflection on the breadth of God's care for His people.

Ultimately, this reference points to the generosity of God’s gifts. Whether in ancient times or today, understanding the scale of what we have received can deepen our gratitude. Let this word encourage you to appreciate the fullness of your spiritual inheritance and the trustworthiness of the One who provides it.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • Rabbah1×
  • Hamath-1×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

  • רַבָּ֑ה1×
  • חֲמַ֣ת1×

Key Verses

  • Amos 6:2
    Go to Calneh, and see. From there go to Hamath the great. Then go down to Gath of the Philistines. Are they better than these kingdoms? Is their border greater than your border?

    This is the only occurrence of the phrase, where Amos uses Hamath to illustrate the extent of Israel's borders.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Hamath the great mean?

It is a Hebrew phrase meaning 'Hamath the great,' referring to an ancient city in the northern Levant. The adjective 'great' likely denotes its size, importance, or fortifications. It appears only once in the Bible as a landmark for Israel's northern border.

Where is Hamath the great mentioned?

It is found in Amos 6:2. The prophet uses it to show how far Israel's territory stretched from Dan in the north to Beersheba in the south. This single mention helps define the geographical scope of the nation at that time.

Why is Hamath called 'the great'?

The term distinguishes this specific city, possibly due to its imposing fortifications or political significance. In Amos, it serves as a well-known northern reference point to challenge the audience about their own borders and security.

Every Occurrence (1 verses across 1 books)

Amos 1 verse
Amos 6:2

Go to Calneh, and see. From there go to Hamath the great. Then go down to Gath of the Philistines. Are they better than…