probably from גִּיחַlemma גּיחַ missing vowel, corrected to גִּיחַ; (compare גִּיחוֹן); the external abdomen, belly (as the source of the faetus ); belly.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **gâchôwn**, represented by `{{H1512}}`, refers to the **belly**. It appears only **2 times** in **2 unique verses**, making its usage highly specific and thematically consistent. Its definition is the external abdomen or **belly**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word is used in two significant contexts of judgment and law. In Genesis, `{{H1512}}` appears in God's curse upon the **serpent** `{{H5175}}`, decreeing that "upon thy **belly** shalt thou go" [[Genesis 3:14]]. This connects the word to a state of humiliation and divine punishment. Later, in Leviticus, the term is used in the dietary laws to classify creatures that are an **abomination** `{{H8263}}`, forbidding the consumption of anything that "goeth upon the **belly**" [[Leviticus 11:42]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context of `{{H1512}}`:
* `{{H5175}}` **nâchâsh** (serpent): This is the creature that is cursed by **God** `{{H430}}` to move upon its **belly** as a result of its actions [[Genesis 3:14]].
* `{{H779}}` **ʼârar** (to execrate; bitterly curse): This word defines the divine action taken against the serpent, with movement on the **belly** being a central part of the punishment [[Genesis 3:14]].
* `{{H8263}}` **sheqets** (abomination): This term describes the status of creatures that move on their **belly**, classifying them as ritually unclean and forbidden to be eaten [[Leviticus 11:42]].
* `{{H1980}}` **hâlak** (to walk): This word for normal movement is used in Leviticus to describe what goes on the **belly**, contrasting this form of locomotion with others, such as going on **four** `{{H702}}` feet [[Leviticus 11:42]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1512}}` is centered on its association with judgment and uncleanness.
* **Symbol of Humiliation:** Movement on the **belly** is established from its first mention as a sign of a curse and a lowered state, forcing the serpent to travel in the **dust** `{{H6083}}` for all the **days** `{{H3117}}` of its **life** `{{H2416}}` [[Genesis 3:14]].
* **Marker of the Unclean:** The concept is carried into the Mosaic law, where going on the **belly** is a key identifier for animals that are an **abomination** and must not be eaten by God's people.
* **Divine Judgment:** In both of its occurrences, the word is linked to a negative divine declaration, first as a punishment and second as a prohibition, illustrating a clear separation between the holy and the profane.
### Summary
In summary, **gâchôwn** `{{H1512}}` is more than a simple anatomical term. Though rare, it consistently functions as a symbol of divine judgment, humiliation, and ritual uncleanness. Its use in scripture demonstrates how a physical characteristic can represent a profound spiritual status, marking a creature as either cursed or ceremonially unfit.
TRV