Lexical Summary
Chakmoni: Hachmoni
Original Word:חַכְמוֹנִי
Part of Speech:proper name, masculine
Transliteration:Cahkmowniy
Pronunciation:khak-mo-NEE
Phonetic Spelling:(khak-mo-nee')
KJV: Hachmoni, Hachmonite
NASB:Hachmoni, Hachmonite
Word Origin:[fromH2449 (חָכַם - wise)]
1. skilful
2. Chakmoni, an Israelite
Strong's Exhaustive Concordance
Hachmoni, Hachmonite
Fromchakam; skilful; Chakmoni, an Israelite -- Hachmoni, Hachmonite.
see HEBREWchakam
NAS Exhaustive Concordance
Word Originfrom
chakamDefinition"wise," two Isr.
NASB TranslationHachmoni (1), Hachmonite (1).
Brown-Driver-Briggs
(
wise) —
1 Chronicles 11:11.
1 Chronicles 27:32.
Topical Lexicon
Biblical OccurrencesHachmoni (often rendered “the Hachmonite”) appears only twice in the Old Testament. In1 Chronicles 11:11 the term marks the ancestry of Jashobeam, chief of David’s elite warriors. In1 Chronicles 27:32 it identifies Jehiel, tutor of David’s sons. In both passages the word functions as a family or clan designation rather than a personal name.
Historical Background
The references fall within the Chronicler’s record of David’s reign, written to encourage post-exilic Israel with models of faithful leadership. By highlighting a single clan in two distinct ministries—military and educational—the Chronicler underscores the breadth of service that supported the unified monarchy.
Family Lineage and Tribal Affiliation
Although Scripture does not trace a detailed genealogy for Hachmoni, both occurrences are set among men from the tribe of Judah. Since David himself is Judahite, the inclusion of Hachmonites within his closest circle aligns with the tribal solidarity that characterizes his early reign (1 Chronicles 12:1-40). Extra-biblical tradition sometimes links the clan to the town of Bethlehem or its environs, yet the text remains silent on a specific locale. What stands out is the clan’s reputation for valor and wisdom—traits fitting the royal service roles they occupy.
Association with David’s Mighty Men
1 Chronicles 11:11: “This is the list of David’s mighty men: Jashobeam, a Hachmonite, was chief of the Thirty; he wielded his spear against three hundred men, whom he killed at one time.”
Jashobeam’s extraordinary feat ranks him first among the “Three,” David’s most renowned warriors. His Hachmonite identity therefore becomes synonymous with military excellence and covenant loyalty to the Lord’s anointed king (compare2 Samuel 23:8). Through Jashobeam, the Hachmonites model courageous faith that advances God’s kingdom purposes.
Role in Royal Court and Education
1 Chronicles 27:32: “Jonathan, David’s uncle, was a counselor, a man of insight, and Jehiel son of Hachmoni attended to the king’s sons.”
Jehiel’s charge over the princes indicates recognized competence in instruction and moral guidance. The Chronicler pairs him with Jonathan, “a man of insight,” suggesting Jehiel likewise possessed discernment. Thus the clan contributes not only on the battlefield but also in shaping the next generation of covenant leadership.
Theological Significance
Together the two passages portray a household devoted to God-honoring service across diverse spheres. The Spirit-inspired record teaches that strength and wisdom, often viewed as separate virtues, converge in those who fear the Lord (Proverbs 24:5). The Hachmonites illustrate how a godly heritage nurtures both martial courage and pedagogical skill, gifts that advance God’s redemptive plan through David’s line.
Lessons for Faith and Leadership
1. God raises up entire families—not merely individuals—to accomplish His purposes (Joshua 24:15).
2. Valor and instruction are complementary ministries; the people who defend truth must also pass it on (2 Timothy 2:2).
3. Faithful service in obscurity (as clan identifiers rather than famous names) receives lasting honor in Scripture, reminding believers that recognition comes ultimately from God (Hebrews 6:10).
Forms and Transliterations
חַכְמוֹנִ֖י חַכְמוֹנִ֗י חכמוני chachmoNi ḥaḵ·mō·w·nî ḥaḵmōwnî
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