חֵלֶב

Cheleb, an Israelite

Definition

חֵלֶב (Chêleb) is a proper noun referring to an Israelite warrior named Cheleb (also spelled Heleb in the KJV). He is listed among King David's mighty men, specifically as the son of Baanah from Netophah (2 Samuel 23:29). This name is identical to the common Hebrew noun חֶלֶב (cheleb, H2459), meaning 'fat, fatness, or the choicest part.' As a personal name, it likely carried symbolic meaning, possibly denoting prosperity, strength, or being a choice individual, much like the substance it references.

Biblical Usage

This word occurs only once in the Old Testament, in 2 Samuel 23:29, within the catalog of David's elite warriors. Its usage is strictly as a personal name for one of these valiant men. There are no other biblical instances where it is used differently.

Etymology

The name חֵלֶב (Chêleb) is directly derived from the identical common noun חֶלֶב (cheleb, H2459), meaning 'fat, fatness, richness.' In Semitic languages, names were often taken from common words describing desirable attributes. The root relates to concepts of abundance, the best part, and richness.

Semantic Range

In ancient Israelite culture, names were often meaningful and descriptive. Naming a child 'Cheleb' (Fatness) would not have been pejorative but would have invoked positive connotations of abundance, vitality, and the choicest portion, as fat was considered the richest and most desirable part of a sacrifice or meal. It reflects a cultural value placed on physical prosperity and strength.

חֶלֶב (cheleb, H2459) — The common noun for 'fat' or 'fatness' from which this proper name is derived.

Word Details

Scripture References