a primitive root (compare חָבָא, חָבָה); properly, to hide (as in the bosom), i.e. to cherish (with affection); love.
Transliteration:châbab
Pronunciation:khaw-bab'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew root `{{H2245}}` (*châbab*) is a primitive root, semantically related to `{{H2244}}` (*châbâ’*, to hide, conceal) and `{{H2247}}` (*châbâh*, to hide oneself). Its foundational meaning is "to hide (as in the bosom)," which extends naturally to "to cherish (with affection)" and, by extension, "to love." This etymological connection reveals a nuanced understanding of love: one that is intimate, protective, and deeply personal. The act of "hiding in the bosom" implies a profound closeness, a tender guarding, and a valuing of the object of affection as something precious and vulnerable, deserving of utmost care and concealment from harm. It suggests a love that is not merely an emotion but an active, safeguarding posture.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Remarkably, the verb `{{H2245}}` appears only once in the entire Hebrew Bible, making its sole occurrence exceptionally significant. This unique instance is found in [[Deuteronomy 33:3]], within Moses' final blessing upon the tribes of Israel: "Indeed, He loves His people; all Your holy ones are in Your hand. And they followed in Your steps; they received Your words." Here, the subject of the verb is Yahweh, and the object is "His people" (Israel). The context is a declaration of God's steadfast and protective care for His covenant people. The use of *châbab* in this singular verse paints a picture of divine love that is not abstract but intimately involved, holding Israel securely "in His hand." This specific choice of verb emphasizes God's tender, cherishing affection, portraying Him as one who holds His people close, safeguarding them with a deep, personal devotion akin to a parent holding a cherished child to their bosom.
### Related Words & Concepts
As noted in its base definition, `{{H2245}}` shares a semantic field with other Hebrew words related to "hiding" or "concealment," such as `{{H2244}}` (*châbâ’*) and `{{H2247}}` (*châbâh*). This connection underscores the protective and intimate nature of the love it describes. When considering other Hebrew terms for "love," *châbab* stands out for its unique emphasis on intimate care:
* `{{H0157}}` (*’ahav*): The most common and general term for love, encompassing a wide range of affections from human relationships to divine love. While *’ahav* can describe deep love, it lacks the specific nuance of "bosom-cherishing" inherent in *châbab*.
* `{{H2617}}` (*chesed*): Often translated as "steadfast love," "lovingkindness," or "mercy." *Chesed* emphasizes covenant loyalty, faithfulness, and benevolent action, often in the context of a relational obligation. While it implies care, it focuses more on enduring commitment than the intimate, protective embrace of *châbab*.
* `{{H7355}}` (*racham*): Signifies compassion, mercy, or pity, often linked to the womb (*rechem*), suggesting a deep, visceral, almost maternal tenderness. While *racham* conveys profound emotional connection and care, *châbab* specifically highlights the act of holding close and cherishing.
The distinctiveness of *châbab* lies in its portrayal of love as an act of intimate, protective embrace, a holding close that offers security and warmth.
### Theological Significance
The singular appearance of `{{H2245}}` in [[Deuteronomy 33:3]] is profoundly theologically significant. It reveals a dimension of God's character and His relationship with Israel that is uniquely tender and personal. God's love for His people is not merely a general benevolence or a covenantal obligation, but a deep, cherishing affection that seeks to hold them close and protect them. This "bosom love" implies an unparalleled level of divine care, security, and intimacy. It suggests that Israel is not just a nation under God's rule, but a beloved entity held dear in the very heart of God. This concept resonates with later biblical themes of God's protective presence (e.g., "under His wings") and His intimate knowledge of His people. For the believer, this singular word offers a glimpse into the profound depth of God's personal affection, assuring them of His tender and safeguarding love.
### Summary
`{{H2245}}` (*châbab*) is a rare but powerful Hebrew verb, appearing only once in the Old Testament at [[Deuteronomy 33:3]]. Its core meaning, derived from roots implying "to hide," signifies a profound, intimate, and protective form of "to cherish" or "to love," akin to holding something precious close to one's bosom. In its sole biblical occurrence, it describes Yahweh's deep and tender love for His people Israel, emphasizing His active, safeguarding care and intimate affection. This unique word highlights a dimension of divine love that is personal, secure, and deeply cherishing, setting it apart from other Hebrew terms for love by underscoring the intimate embrace and protective nature of God's relationship with His beloved.
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