מִבְחוֹר

מִבְחוֹר

select, i.e. well fortified

Definition

The Hebrew noun מִבְחוֹר (mibchôwr) refers to something that is 'chosen' or 'select,' specifically in the sense of being the best or most excellent of its kind. In its two biblical occurrences, it describes fortified cities or strongholds that are of superior quality or strategic importance. In 2 Kings 3:19, it is used in a military context for 'every fortified city' that is to be destroyed, implying these are prime, well-defended targets. In 2 Kings 19:23 (paralleled in Isaiah 37:24), the Assyrian king boasts of having reached the 'remotest heights' and the 'choicest of its forests,' using the term metaphorically for the finest or most inaccessible parts of the land. Thus, the core meaning encompasses both physical excellence (like fortifications) and metaphorical superiority.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only twice in the Old Testament, both times in the historical books of 2 Kings. Its usage is consistently in contexts of conquest and pride. In 2 Kings 3:19, it appears in a prophecy of judgment against Moab, targeting their 'choice' fortified cities. In 2 Kings 19:23, it is found in the taunting speech of the Assyrian field commander, Sennacherib, who arrogantly claims to have penetrated Judah's most select and remote strongholds. The pattern shows it describing the pinnacle of military or geographical assets, often in the context of being targeted or claimed by an enemy.

Etymology

מִבְחוֹר is a noun derived from the common Hebrew root בָּחַר (bāchar, H977), which means 'to choose, select, or elect.' This root is central to many theological concepts in the Old Testament, such as God's election of Israel. The noun form מִבְחוֹר specifically denotes the 'chosen thing' or 'choice part,' emphasizing the result of the selection process—the best or most excellent item from a group.

Semantic Range

While not a primary theological term, מִבְחוֹר connects to the important biblical theme of God's sovereignty in choice and judgment. In 2 Kings 3:19, the 'choice' cities of Moab are designated for destruction by God's command, showing that even what humans consider their best and strongest is subject to His will. In the Assyrian boast of 2 Kings 19:23, the claim to conquer Judah's 'choicest' places is ultimately answered by God's deliverance, demonstrating that human pride in selecting and conquering the finest things is futile against divine protection. Understanding this word enriches reading by highlighting the contrast between human valuation of excellence and God's ultimate authority over it. In the ancient Near Eastern context, a 'choice' or 'select' fortified city (מִבְחוֹר) represented the peak of a kingdom's defensive and architectural investment. These were not just any walled towns but the most strategically vital and impressively built strongholds, often situated in key locations or with superior fortifications. An enemy's ability to target or boast of reaching these cities was a major psychological and military blow, signifying deep penetration and dominance. The term captures the cultural value placed on military strength and secure assets. בָּחוּר (bāchûr, H970) — Typically refers to a 'chosen young man' or youth, focusing on persons rather than objects or places. סְגֻלָּה (segullâ, H5459) — A 'treasured possession,' often used for Israel as God's special, chosen people, with a more intimate and covenantal connotation than the strategic excellence of מִבְחוֹר.

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