### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **chêdeq**, represented by `{{H2312}}`, literally means a **brier** or **thorn**. Derived from an unused root word meaning "to sting," this term appears only **2 times** in **2 verses**. Though rare, it is used as a powerful metaphor for moral corruption and the difficult consequences of laziness.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H2312}}` illustrates concepts of painful obstruction and moral decay. In Proverbs, it describes the path of the lazy, stating, "The way of the slothful man is as an hedge of **thorns**" [[Proverbs 15:19]]. This imagery suggests a life filled with self-inflicted difficulties and painful progress. The prophet Micah uses the term to describe a corrupt society where even "The best of them is as a **brier**" [[Micah 7:4]], indicating that the most seemingly upright individuals are still dangerous and harmful.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{H2312}}` through context and contrast:
* `{{H6102}}` **ʻâtsêl** (slothful, sluggard): This word is directly associated with the path of **thorns** `{{H2312}}`, establishing laziness as the cause of such an obstructed way [[Proverbs 15:19]].
* `{{H3477}}` **yâshâr** (upright): This term for what is straight or right is used in direct contrast to **chêdeq**. In Proverbs, the way of the **righteous** is smooth, unlike the thorny path of the slothful [[Proverbs 15:19]]. In Micah, the metaphor is intensified by stating that even the most **upright** person is like a brier, highlighting extreme societal corruption [[Micah 7:4]].
* `{{H4881}}` **mᵉsûwkâh** (hedge): This word is used to construct the full image of a "hedge of **thorns**" in [[Proverbs 15:19]], representing a barrier or enclosure. A related word, `{{H4534}}` **mᵉçûwkâh**, is used in [[Micah 7:4]] to mean a **thorn hedge**.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H2312}}` lies in its use as a moral and spiritual metaphor.
* **Consequences of Sloth:** The term illustrates that a life of indolence, described by the word **ʻâtsêl** `{{H6102}}`, does not lead to ease but to a path full of painful obstacles, like a hedge of thorns [[Proverbs 15:19]].
* **Symbol of Corruption:** In Micah, the **brier** `{{H2312}}` symbolizes the state of humanity in a fallen world. When society is corrupt, even its "best" `{{H2896}}` people become a source of pain, leading to a day of **visitation** `{{H6486}}` and **perplexity** `{{H3998}}`.
* **Warning of Judgment:** The imagery of the brier and thorn hedge in Micah serves as a warning about impending divine judgment upon a people whose character has become harmful and treacherous [[Micah 7:4]].
### Summary
In summary, **chêdeq** `{{H2312}}` is more than just a prickly plant. It serves as a potent biblical symbol for the painful obstacles created by sloth and the dangerous nature of morally corrupt individuals. Its two appearances powerfully illustrate how unrighteous character and behavior result in a life that is both difficult for the individual and harmful to others.
TRV