a primitive root; to clasp (the hands or in embrace); embrace, fold.
Transliteration:châbaq
Pronunciation:khaw-bak'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew root חָבַק (châbaq, `{{H2263}}`) is a primitive root whose core meaning revolves around the action of "clasping" or "embracing." This encompasses a range of physical and metaphorical applications. Primarily, it signifies bringing two or more things together in a close, encircling motion. The semantic range extends from the intimate embrace between individuals, conveying affection and welcome, to the "folding" of hands, which idiomatically represents idleness or inactivity. The underlying concept is one of close connection, enclosure, or a deliberate posture, whether for intimacy or cessation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
While not extensively used, the occurrences of חָבַק are highly illustrative of its semantic breadth:
* **Affectionate Embrace:** The most straightforward usage is found in contexts of personal affection and reunion.
* In [[Genesis 29:13]], Laban "embraced" (ויחבק) Jacob upon hearing of his arrival, a clear depiction of a warm, welcoming, and familial embrace. This signifies deep kinship and joy at reunion.
* The Song of Solomon employs חָבַק to describe the intimate embrace between lovers, conveying affection, security, and closeness: "His left hand is under my head, and his right hand embraces me!" [[Song of Solomon 2:6]], repeated in [[Song of Solomon 8:3]].
* [[Ecclesiastes 3:5]] includes "a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing" within a poetic catalogue of life's appropriate seasons. This highlights the discerning application of physical affection and connection.
* **Embracing Wisdom (Metaphorical):**
* [[Proverbs 4:8]] uses חָבַק metaphorically: "Prize her, and she will exalt you; she will honor you if you embrace her." Here, "her" refers to wisdom. To "embrace" wisdom implies a deep, personal commitment, valuing, and intimate relationship with it, beyond mere intellectual assent.
* **Folding of Hands (Idiom for Idleness):**
* In a stark contrast to the affectionate embrace, חָבַק forms part of a common idiom for sloth or idleness: "a little folding of the hands to rest." This phrase appears twice in Proverbs: [[Proverbs 6:10]] and [[Proverbs 24:33]]. The "folding of the hands" (חִבּוּק יָדַיִם) vividly portrays a posture of inactivity, procrastination, or refusal to work, leading to poverty and ruin.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of חָבַק can be further illuminated by examining related terms and concepts:
* **Words for Affection and Closeness:**
* `{{H5401}}` (nāshaq): "to kiss," often found alongside חָבַק in scenes of reunion and affection (e.g., [[Genesis 29:13]]).
* `{{H2620}}` (ḥānan): "to be gracious, show favor," implying a benevolent and often intimate inclination.
* `{{H7901}}` (shākab): "to lie down," can imply rest or intimacy.
* **Words for Rest and Inactivity:**
* `{{H7902}}` (shēnāh): "sleep."
* `{{H8539}}` (tardēmāh): "deep sleep, trance."
* `{{H6106}}` (ʻaṣallāh): "slothfulness, idleness," a direct conceptual parallel to the negative sense of "folding of the hands."
* **Concepts:**
* **Intimacy:** Whether familial, romantic, or intellectual (with wisdom), חָבַק underscores the value of close, often protective, connection.
* **Diligence vs. Sloth:** The dual usage of the word starkly contrasts active engagement and productivity with passive idleness and its negative consequences.
### Theological Significance
The dual nature of חָבַק carries significant theological implications.
* **Valuing Relationships:** The positive instances of חָבַק emphasize the biblical affirmation of deep, affectionate human relationships—within family, marriage, and community. These embraces reflect the created order and the human need for connection, mirroring in a limited way the relational nature of God. The warmth and security of an embrace can be seen as a tangible expression of love and grace.
* **Commitment to Wisdom and Truth:** The call to "embrace" wisdom in Proverbs elevates the pursuit and integration of divine truth into one's life. It is not a detached academic exercise but a wholehearted, personal commitment that shapes one's character and destiny. This speaks to the active role required in discipleship and spiritual growth.
* **Condemnation of Sloth:** The repeated warning against "folding of the hands" serves as a strong ethical and theological caution. Idleness is presented not merely as inefficiency but as a moral failing that leads to poverty, missed opportunities, and a neglect of God-given responsibilities. It is a posture that closes one off from productive engagement with the world and potential blessings. This highlights the importance of diligence, stewardship of time and resources, and active participation in life as an act of obedience and faithfulness.
### Summary
The Hebrew root חָבַק (châbaq, `{{H2263}}`) is a concise yet profound term primarily signifying "to clasp" or "to embrace." Its biblical usage reveals a striking semantic range, oscillating between the warmth of intimate connection and the chilling posture of idleness. On one hand, חָBבַק beautifully describes affectionate reunions, such as Laban's embrace of Jacob [[Genesis 29:13]], and the tender intimacy between lovers in the Song of Solomon [[Song of Solomon 2:6]]. It also extends metaphorically to the deep commitment required to "embrace" wisdom [[Proverbs 4:8]], signifying a profound valuing and integration of truth into one's life. Conversely, the idiom "folding of the hands" (חִבּוּק יָדַיִם) repeatedly serves as a stark warning against sloth and unproductive passivity, highlighting its detrimental consequences [[Proverbs 6:10]]. Theologically, חָבַק thus encapsulates the biblical emphasis on the sanctity and value of genuine, active relationships and the critical importance of diligence and purposeful engagement, contrasting the life-affirming nature of connection with the barrenness of inaction.
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