### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **chebyôwn**, represented by `{{H2253}}`, means **hiding** or **concealment**. It is a rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its singular use provides a specific and focused theological insight into the nature of God's power.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H2253}}` is in Habakkuk's prayer, where he describes a majestic vision of God. The verse states that amidst God's glorious appearance, described with terms for brightness and light, "there was the **hiding** of his power" [[Habakkuk 3:4]]. This suggests that even in a powerful revelation, the fullness of God's might remains concealed from human view.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{H2253}}` is enriched by surrounding terms that describe God's manifest glory and might:
* `{{H5051}}` **nôgahh** (brightness): Defined as **brilliancy**, this word is used in [[Habakkuk 3:4]] to describe God's glorious appearance. It is also used in contexts of divine glory and righteousness ([[Isaiah 62:1]], [[Ezekiel 1:28]]).
* `{{H216}}` **ʼôwr** (light): Meaning **illumination** or **luminary**, this term is paired with **nôgahh** in [[Habakkuk 3:4]] to emphasize the radiance of God's presence. It is a foundational word for God's creative power [[Genesis 1:3]] and his guiding presence [[Psalms 27:1]].
* `{{H5797}}` **ʻôz** (power): This word means **strength** in various applications, including force and majesty. In [[Habakkuk 3:4]], it is God's **power** that is in **hiding**. The term is frequently used to describe God as a refuge and source of strength for His people ([[Psalms 46:1]], [[Proverbs 18:10]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2253}}` is concentrated in its single appearance, offering a profound statement about the nature of God:
* **Paradox of Revelation:** The term illustrates that God's self-revelation is always partial. He appears in immense glory, described with words like **brightness** `{{H5051}}` and **light** `{{H216}}`, yet His full essence remains in **hiding**.
* **Incomprehensible Power:** The specific phrase "the **hiding** of his **power**" [[Habakkuk 3:4]] emphasizes that God's might is too vast to be fully displayed or understood by humanity. The power that is concealed is far greater than the power that is revealed.
* **Source of Awe:** This concept of hidden power is a source of theological awe. It suggests that behind the visible manifestations of God's glory lies an infinite reserve of strength `{{H5797}}`, reminding the observer of the immense gap between the Creator and the created.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2253}}` **chebyôwn**, though used only once, provides a critical theological concept. It defines the **hiding** of God's power not as an absence, but as a deliberate and awe-inspiring concealment. Its context in [[Habakkuk 3:4]] shows that even amidst the most brilliant divine manifestations, the true extent of God's might remains a profound mystery, infinitely beyond human perception.
TRV