a primitive root (compare חָבַב); to secrete; hide (self).
Transliteration:châbâh
Pronunciation:khaw-bah'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew verb H2247 (חָבָה, châbâh) is a primitive root primarily signifying "to secrete" or "to hide (oneself)." Its core meaning revolves around the act of concealment, often with a reflexive sense, indicating that the subject is actively hiding themselves. While the Strong's definition notes a comparison to חָבַב (châbab, "to love, cherish"), this comparison likely points to a phonetic or ancient root connection rather than a direct semantic overlap in its primary usage as "hide." The dominant nuance of H2247 is that of seeking refuge or protection by withdrawing from a perceived threat or danger. It implies a reactive concealment, driven by vulnerability or fear, rather than a deliberate, strategic stashing of an object.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb H2247 appears in the Niphal stem (reflexive-passive) in its biblical occurrences, underscoring the "hiding oneself" aspect.
* In [[1 Samuel 13:6]], during a time of intense Philistine pressure, the men of Israel "hid themselves" (וַיֵּחָבְאוּ) in caves, thickets, rocks, pits, and cisterns. This context vividly illustrates the meaning of H2247 as a desperate act of seeking physical concealment and safety from an overwhelming military threat. The hiding is a direct response to fear and distress.
* Similarly, in [[Job 24:4]], the text describes the poor of the land who "hide themselves together" (יֶחְבְּאוּ) from the oppressive wicked. Here, H2247 depicts the vulnerable seeking refuge from social injustice and exploitation, again highlighting a response to a dangerous environment.
In both instances, the verb describes a physical act of self-concealment driven by external threats, whether military or social. It underscores human vulnerability and the instinctual drive to seek shelter when faced with overwhelming adversity. While the verb itself is limited in its occurrences, its derived noun, מַחֲבֵא (machave', "hiding place"), appears in [[Psalm 119:114]] and [[Isaiah 32:2]], often in the context of God or a righteous leader providing refuge, thereby extending the theological concept.
### Related Words & Concepts
The Hebrew language possesses several words for "to hide," each with distinct nuances, which helps to delineate the specific semantic range of H2247:
* `{{H5641}}` (sātar): This is a more general term for "to hide" or "to conceal," which can be active (to hide something) or passive (to be hidden). It encompasses a broader range of concealment, from divine hiddenness to human secrets.
* `{{H3584}}` (kāman): Often implies "to store up," "to lay up," or "to conceal" with a sense of intentionality, often for a specific purpose (e.g., hiding a treasure or a plot).
* `{{H6845}}` (tsaphan): Similar to kāman, this word often carries the nuance of "to hide" or "to treasure up" something precious or valuable, implying preservation or protection.
In contrast to these, H2247 (châbâh) specifically emphasizes the reflexive act of "hiding oneself," typically as a response to danger or oppression. It highlights the vulnerable party seeking refuge, distinct from the more active or purposeful concealment implied by other terms. The concept of "refuge" (`{{H4268}}` - maḥaseh) and "shelter" are closely related, as H2247 describes the action taken to find such a place.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of H2247 primarily emerges from the human condition it describes: a state of vulnerability and fear that compels individuals to seek concealment. While the verb itself is not used to describe God's actions, the human act of "hiding oneself" from threats points implicitly to the ultimate need for divine refuge.
The biblical narrative frequently portrays God as the true "hiding place" or "shelter" for His people, even if different Hebrew terms are used (e.g., `{{H4268}}` in [[Psalm 91:2]]). The instances of H2247 in [[1 Samuel 13:6]] and [[Job 24:4]] depict human beings relying on their own limited means of concealment in the face of overwhelming power. This human desperation highlights the contrast with the perfect and secure refuge that God offers. Thus, the very act of "hiding oneself" from earthly dangers can be seen as an echo of humanity's deeper need for divine protection and security, a need that only God can fully meet. It underscores the fragility of human existence apart from divine provision.
### Summary
The Hebrew verb H2247 (חָבָה, châbâh) fundamentally means "to hide oneself" or "to secrete oneself." Its biblical occurrences consistently portray a reactive and often desperate act of self-concealment undertaken by individuals in response to external threats, such as military invasion or social oppression. This distinguishes it from other Hebrew words for "hide," which may imply more general concealment or purposeful storing. The theological implication of H2247 lies not in divine action, but in its profound revelation of human vulnerability and the inherent need for refuge. It serves as a poignant reminder of humanity's limited capacity to protect itself, thereby pointing to the ultimate and secure "hiding place" found only in God.
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