Understanding the Habiru and Their Connection to Hebrews

The term 'Habiru' refers to a group of people in the ancient Near East often mistaken for Hebrews, but they were essentially wanderers or mercenaries. This distinction is crucial as many earlier scholars incorrectly linked Habiru to Abraham's lineage as nomadic warlords, particularly citing biblical instances like Abraham's rescue of Lot. However, current understanding suggests that the Habiru were a distinct group employed in various armies rather than the ancestors of the Hebrews. This nuanced view highlights the importance of accurately interpreting ancient texts and terminology in biblical studies.