of uncertain derivation; Chadrak, a Syrian deity; Hadrach.
Transliteration:Chadrâk
Pronunciation:khad-rawk'
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H2317}}` (Chadrâk) is a proper noun, transliterated as Hadrach. Its derivation is noted as uncertain, suggesting its etymology is not clearly discernible from Hebrew roots. Lexical sources identify it primarily as a geographical location, specifically a "land" or region, located in ancient Syria. The Strong's definition further associates it with the concept of a "Syrian deity," implying that the region of Hadrach may have been named after, or was a center for the worship of, a particular pagan deity. Thus, its semantic range is limited to a specific place name, carrying the potential connotation of a territory under the influence of a foreign religious system.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{H2317}}` occurs only once in the Hebrew Bible, found in the prophetic book of Zechariah:
* [[Zechariah 9:1]]: "The burden of the word of the Lord is against the land of Hadrach, and Damascus shall be its resting place; for the eye of man and all the tribes of Israel are toward the Lord."
In this sole occurrence, Hadrach is presented as a geographical entity, a "land" (`{{H776}}` *'erets*), which serves as the initial focus of a divine oracle. It is listed alongside other significant cities and regions of the ancient Near East, including Damascus, Hamath, Tyre, Sidon, and Ashkelon, all of which were prominent non-Israelite territories. The context is a prophetic "burden" (`{{H4853}}` *maśśā’*), indicating a pronouncement of judgment or a weighty divine message. The oracle describes the Lord's universal sovereignty, extending His divine activity and judgment over these foreign lands. While the text itself does not explicitly name a deity associated with Hadrach, its inclusion in a list of powerful foreign cities, often centers of polytheistic worship, aligns with the scholarly understanding that it was a significant regional hub, possibly with a distinct cultic identity.
### Related Words & Concepts
Given its singular occurrence and status as a proper noun of uncertain derivation, `{{H2317}}` does not have direct lexical cognates within the Hebrew Bible. However, it is conceptually related to:
* **Geographical Terms:** As a "land" (`{{H776}}` *'erets*), it belongs to the category of place names, particularly those identifying foreign nations or regions that fall under divine judgment or attention.
* **Prophetic Oracles Against Nations:** Its appearance in [[Zechariah 9:1]] places it within the broader prophetic tradition of "burdens" (`{{H4853}}` *maśśā’*) or pronouncements against surrounding nations (e.g., [[Isaiah 13-23]], [[Jeremiah 46-51]], [[Ezekiel 25-32]], [[Amos 1-2]]). This genre highlights Yahweh's sovereignty over all peoples, not just Israel.
* **Pagan Deities and Worship:** The Strong's definition's reference to a "Syrian deity" connects Hadrach to the broader biblical theme of Yahweh's supremacy over all foreign gods and their associated territories. While not explicitly stated in the text, this interpretation underscores the theological conflict between the worship of the one true God and the idolatry of surrounding nations.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H2317}}` lies primarily in its role within the prophetic oracle of Zechariah 9. Despite its obscurity and singular mention, its inclusion underscores several profound truths:
1. **Universal Sovereignty of Yahweh:** The "burden of the word of the Lord" begins with Hadrach, demonstrating that God's authority and reach extend far beyond the borders of Israel. He is not merely the God of Israel, but the sovereign Lord over all nations, including those associated with pagan worship or powerful empires.
2. **Divine Judgment and Salvation:** The oracle in Zechariah 9 speaks of both judgment upon the nations and ultimate salvation for Zion. Hadrach, as a representative of the Gentile world, is subject to God's decree, highlighting His justice. Yet, the broader context of Zechariah 9 points to a future messianic king who will bring peace to these very regions ([[Zechariah 9:9-10]]), implying that even these foreign lands are part of God's redemptive plan.
3. **Supremacy Over Idolatry:** If Hadrach was indeed a center for a Syrian deity, its mention in a divine oracle reinforces the biblical assertion of Yahweh's absolute supremacy over all rival gods. The Lord's word is directed *against* this land, signifying His dominion over any perceived power of local deities.
### Summary
`{{H2317}}` (Hadrach) is an obscure Hebrew proper noun, of uncertain derivation, identifying a geographical "land" in ancient Syria. It appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in [[Zechariah 9:1]], where it serves as the initial focus of a divine "burden" or oracle. Contextually, Hadrach is listed among other prominent non-Israelite cities and regions, signifying God's universal sovereignty and His pronouncements over all nations. While the biblical text itself does not explicitly name a deity, scholarly interpretation often associates Hadrach with a Syrian deity or cultic center, thereby reinforcing the theological theme of Yahweh's absolute supremacy over all pagan gods and their territories. Its singular mention powerfully illustrates the expansive reach of God's word and His ultimate dominion over all creation.
TRV