### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **châbaq**, represented by `{{H2263}}`, is a primitive root defined as to **clasp** (the hands or in embrace); embrace, fold. It appears **14 times** across **12 unique verses** in the Bible. The word signifies a physical act of holding close, which can represent a wide range of emotions and situations, from affection and reconciliation to desperation and idleness.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H2263}}` is used to depict powerful moments of human interaction. It signifies reunion and forgiveness, as when Esau ran to **embrace** Jacob after years of estrangement [[Genesis 33:4]], or when Laban ran to **embrace** his nephew [[Genesis 29:13]]. The term also describes tender familial affection, as when an aged Israel **embraced** his grandsons before blessing them [[Genesis 48:10]]. In contrast, it can illustrate dire circumstances, such as the desolate who **embrace** dunghills [[Lamentations 4:5]] or the desperate who **embrace** a rock for shelter [[Job 24:8]]. The word is also used metaphorically, as in the choice to **embrace** wisdom for honor [[Proverbs 4:8]] or when a fool **foldeth** his hands in idleness [[Ecclesiastes 4:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the act of embracing:
* `{{H5401}}` **nâshaq** (to kiss): This act of affection often accompanies an embrace and is mentioned in the same passages of reunion between Jacob and Esau [[Genesis 33:4]] and Jacob and Laban [[Genesis 29:13]].
* `{{H7323}}` **rûwts** (to run): This verb highlights the eagerness of an embrace, as both Esau and Laban **ran** to meet Jacob before embracing him ([[Genesis 33:4]], [[Genesis 29:13]]).
* `{{H1058}}` **bâkâh** (to weep): This expresses the deep emotion connected to an embrace, as seen when Esau and Jacob **wept** after their reunion [[Genesis 33:4]].
* `{{H7368}}` **râchaq** (to refrain): Used in Ecclesiastes, this word is presented as the direct opposite of embracing, establishing a "time to **refrain** from embracing" [[Ecclesiastes 3:5]].
### Theological Significance
The thematic weight of `{{H2263}}` is seen in its application across various contexts, highlighting key life experiences.
* **Reconciliation and Welcome:** The act of embracing serves as a potent symbol of forgiveness and restoration of relationship. It is the physical culmination of reconciliation between Jacob and Esau [[Genesis 33:4]] and the warm welcome Laban gives his nephew [[Genesis 29:13]].
* **Intimate Affection:** `{{H2263}}` conveys deep personal connection, from the romantic love described in the Song of Solomon where the beloved's right hand **doth embrace** me [[Song of Solomon 2:6]], to the prophetic promise of a son who will be embraced [[2 Kings 4:16]].
* **Metaphorical Choice:** The word is used figuratively to depict a critical choice with lasting consequences. One is urged to **embrace** wisdom [[Proverbs 4:8]] but warned against the folly of embracing a stranger [[Proverbs 5:20]].
* **A Sign of the Times:** In Ecclesiastes, embracing is placed within a divine framework of appointed times, showing that this fundamental human act has its proper season, with both "a time to **embrace**, and a time to refrain from embracing" [[Ecclesiastes 3:5]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2263}}` **châbaq** demonstrates how a simple physical gesture can carry a profound weight of meaning. It captures the spectrum of human experience, from the joy of loving reunion and the despair of destitution to the life-altering choice between wisdom and folly. The word illustrates that an embrace is not merely an action, but a powerful expression of relationship, emotion, and one's place within a divinely ordered world.
TRV