### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **hôwn**, represented by `{{H1952}}`, primarily refers to **wealth**, **riches**, or **substance**. Appearing **26 times** in **26 unique verses**, it encompasses not only material possessions but also the concept of sufficiency, as in having **enough**. The term's usage often explores the acquisition, value, and limitations of material assets.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical texts, `{{H1952}}` is used to illustrate the complex nature of wealth. It is presented as a component of a blessed life, where **wealth** and riches are in the house of the righteous [[Psalms 112:3]]. However, it is also portrayed as a false security; the rich man's **wealth** is his strong city, but only in his own imagination [[Proverbs 18:11]]. The source of wealth is a critical theme, with a distinction made between **wealth** gathered by labor, which increases [[Proverbs 13:11]], and that gained through unjust means, which is ultimately gathered for the poor [[Proverbs 28:8]]. The word also denotes a price or value, as seen when a man's entire **substance** is considered worthless compared to love [[Song of Solomon 8:7]], or when a people are sold for **nought** [[Psalms 44:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of wealth and material possessions:
* `{{H6239}}` **`ʻôsher`** (riches): This word for **wealth** is often used alongside `{{H1952}}` to emphasize abundance. It is paired with **hôwn** in contexts describing the blessings found in a righteous person's house [[Psalms 112:3]] or the durable treasures that accompany wisdom [[Proverbs 8:18]].
* `{{H3027}}` **`yâd`** (hand): This term for **hand** highlights the means by which wealth is acquired, signifying power and labor. Scripture contrasts wealth gotten by vanity with that gathered by the **hand** (labor), which leads to increase [[Proverbs 13:11]].
* `{{H5159}}` **`nachălâh`** (inheritance): This word defines wealth passed down through generations. While a house and **riches** (hôwn) can be the **inheritance** from fathers, the text contrasts this with a prudent wife, who comes from the LORD [[Proverbs 19:14]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1952}}` is demonstrated through its moral and practical applications.
* **Source and Stewardship:** True substance is to be used to **honour** `{{H3513}}` the LORD [[Proverbs 3:9]]. Wealth gained through unjust means like **usury** `{{H5392}}` is condemned and will not last, as it is gathered for another who will **pity** `{{H2603}}` the poor [[Proverbs 28:8]].
* **The Deception of Riches:** Wealth is often seen as a source of **strength** `{{H5797}}` and security, like a **strong** `{{H5797}}` **city** `{{H7151}}` [[Proverbs 10:15]]. However, this security is ultimately an illusion, as these **riches** `{{H1952}}` do not **profit** `{{H3276}}` in the day of wrath [[Proverbs 11:4]].
* **Wisdom's Superior Value:** The pursuit of wisdom is linked to obtaining durable and **precious** `{{H3368}}` **riches** `{{H1952}}` ([[Proverbs 8:18]], [[Proverbs 24:4]]). In contrast, one who keeps company with harlots **spendeth** `{{H6}}` his **substance** `{{H1952}}`, associating folly with financial ruin [[Proverbs 29:3]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1952}}` **hôwn** is more than just a word for money; it represents material substance and the concept of sufficiency. The Bible presents it as a conditional blessing, where its value is determined by how it is acquired and used. Whether it is a source of honor to God [[Proverbs 3:9]] or a deceptive stronghold [[Proverbs 18:11]], **hôwn** consistently points to a greater truth: lasting value is found not in material wealth, but in righteousness, wisdom, and a right relationship with God.
TRV