### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **cheder**, represented by `{{H2315}}`, primarily denotes an **inner chamber** or private room. It appears **38 times** across **33 unique verses** in the Bible. While often referring to a literal apartment or bedchamber, its meaning extends to any innermost or secluded part, both physically and metaphorically.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H2315}}` is used in several key ways to describe private spaces. It is a place of deep emotion, where Joseph `entered into his **chamber**, and wept there` [[Genesis 43:30]]. It is also a space for secrecy and refuge, as when a prophet foretells a man will `go into an inner **chamber** to hide thyself` [[1 Kings 22:25]] or when the young king Joash was hidden in a `bedchamber` [[2 Kings 11:2]]. The word also depicts places of intimate encounter, such as when the king brings his beloved `into his **chambers**` [[Song of Solomon 1:4]] or where a bridegroom goes forth from his `chamber` [[Joel 2:16]]. Figuratively, it can describe the cosmos, as in "the **chambers** of the south" [[Job 9:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the context of private and interior spaces:
* `{{H1004}}` **bayith** (house): This is the larger structure that often contains a **cheder**. It establishes the broader context of a dwelling or family unit, as seen in the commitment, "as for me and my **house**, we will serve the LORD" [[Joshua 24:15]]. A **cheder** is a private room within a **bayith** [[Song of Solomon 3:4]].
* `{{H5944}}` **ʻălîyâh** (upper chamber, parlour): This term describes another specific type of room, often a second-story room or loft. It is used alongside **cheder** in the plans for Solomon's temple, which included `upper **chambers**` and `inner **parlours**` [[1 Chronicles 28:11]].
* `{{H5641}}` **çâthar** (to hide, conceal): This verb is frequently associated with the function of a **cheder**. A chamber is a place `to **hide**` [[1 Kings 22:25]], and Jehoshabeath `**hid**` the young king Joash in a bedchamber [[2 Kings 11:2]]. The concept speaks to seeking protection and secrecy.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H2315}}` is tied to its representation of privacy, the inner self, and divine interaction.
* **The Inner Life:** The word is used metaphorically to describe the depths of the human spirit. The spirit of man is described as `searching all the **inward parts** of the belly` [[Proverbs 20:27]], equating the soul with a set of private **chambers** to be examined. Similarly, harmful words penetrate deeply, going down into the `**innermost parts** of the belly` [[Proverbs 18:8]].
* **Divine Refuge:** God offers the **cheder** as a symbol of spiritual protection. During times of judgment, the LORD calls to His people, "Come, my people, enter thou into thy **chambers**, and shut thy doors about thee: **hide** thyself" [[Isaiah 26:20]]. This elevates the physical room to a place of divine shelter.
* **Secret Accountability:** While a **chamber** can be a place of refuge, it is also a place where secret actions are seen by God. The elders of Israel performed their idolatry `in the **chambers** of his imagery`, believing `The LORD seeth us not` [[Ezekiel 8:12]], yet their actions were exposed.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2315}}` carries a meaning far beyond a simple architectural term. It defines the most private spaces of human life, from a literal `bedchamber` used for weeping, hiding, or intimacy, to the figurative `innermost parts` of the human soul. It serves as a powerful biblical symbol for vulnerability, the inner life, the need for divine refuge, and the truth that no place is truly secret before God.
TRV