from (to sharpen to a point; akin to γράφω through the idea of scratching); a stake, i.e. (by implication) a palisade or rampart (military mound for circumvallation in a siege):--trench.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **chárax**, represented by `{{G5482}}`, refers to a **trench** or rampart used in a military siege. It appears just **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. The word's origin comes from the idea of sharpening to a point, suggesting a palisade made of stakes.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole biblical appearance, `{{G5482}}` is used in a prophecy of judgment. The verse describes a future siege, stating, "...thine **enemies** shall cast a **trench** about thee, and compass thee round, and keep thee in on every side" [[Luke 19:43]]. The term here specifically denotes a military earthwork or palisade constructed to blockade a city completely.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the same verse build upon the imagery of a siege:
* `{{G2190}}` **echthrós** (enemy): This identifies the hostile force, an **adversary** who constructs the siege works [[Luke 19:43]].
* `{{G4033}}` **perikyklóō** (compass round): This verb describes the action of the enemies, to **encircle all around** and establish a complete blockade [[Luke 19:43]].
* `{{G4912}}` **synéchō** (keep in): This word illustrates the result of the trench, to **hold together** or compress, effectively trapping those within the siege [[Luke 19:43]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5482}}` is tied to its specific prophetic context.
* **Foretold Judgment:** The word is part of a declaration of future events, "the **days** shall **come** upon thee" [[Luke 19:43]], highlighting the certainty of a prophesied outcome.
* **Instrument of Adversaries:** The **trench** is built by an **enemy** `{{G2190}}`, serving as a physical manifestation of hostility and a tool for executing judgment.
* **Complete Blockade:** The use of **chárax** alongside terms for encircling and keeping in on every side illustrates a state of complete and inescapable confinement, a powerful image of being trapped by consequences.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5482}}` is a highly specific term for a military **trench** or palisade. Its singular use in scripture is powerful, contributing to a vivid prophecy of a city under siege. It functions not just as a piece of military vocabulary but as a crucial element in a warning, illustrating the methodical and complete nature of the coming judgment at the hands of an enemy.
TRV