### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Chadrâk**, represented by `{{H2317}}`, is defined as "of uncertain derivation; Chadrak, a Syrian deity; Hadrach." This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire biblical text, making its meaning entirely dependent on its specific context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of **Chadrâk** is in [[Zechariah 9:1]], which opens a prophecy as "The burden of the word of the LORD in the land of **Hadrach**". In this divine utterance, the land of **Hadrach** is immediately paired with the city of Damascus `{{H1834}}`, which is identified as the "rest" `{{H4496}}` of this prophetic burden. The passage frames this judgment within a larger eschatological vision, a time "when the eyes of man, as of all the tribes of Israel, shall be toward the LORD" [[Zechariah 9:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of **Chadrâk** is illuminated by the words surrounding it in its only context:
* `{{H4853}}` **massâʼ** (burden): This term introduces the prophecy as "an utterance, chiefly a doom." It signifies a weighty message or oracle from God, as seen in the burdens against other nations like Babylon [[Isaiah 13:1]] and Egypt [[Isaiah 19:1]].
* `{{H1834}}` **Dammeseq** (Damascus): Defined simply as "Damascus, a city of Syria," it is inextricably linked to Hadrach in this prophecy. It often appears as the subject of divine judgment [[Amos 1:3]].
* `{{H4496}}` **mᵉnûwchâh** (rest): This word, meaning "repose or... an abode," describes where the LORD's burden will settle. It points to a finality and a destination for the divine word, whether for judgment or consolation [[Isaiah 11:10]].
* `{{H776}}` **ʼerets** (land): The prophecy is directed at "the **land** of Hadrach," specifying a particular territory. This word for "country, earth, field, ground, land" grounds the divine word in a physical, geographic location [[Genesis 1:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H2317}}` is derived entirely from its role in the oracle of Zechariah 9.
* **Sovereignty Over All Lands:** The "burden" `{{H4853}}` directed at the land of **Hadrach** demonstrates that the LORD's `{{H3068}}` authority is not limited to Israel `{{H3478}}` but extends to specific Syrian territories.
* **The Focused Word of God:** The "word" `{{H1697}}` of the Lord is not a vague concept but is precisely aimed at the land of **Hadrach** and Damascus, showing the targeted nature of divine prophecy.
* **Judgment Leading to Focus on God:** The oracle concerning **Hadrach** is part of a sequence that culminates in a positive universal event: the "eyes" `{{H5869}}` of all "man" `{{H120}}` and the "tribes" `{{H7626}}` of Israel turning to the Lord [[Zechariah 9:1]]. This suggests that God's judgments on nations serve His ultimate purpose.
### Summary
In summary, **Chadrâk** `{{H2317}}` is a name that functions as the specific subject of a divine prophecy. While appearing just once, it plays a key role in a "burden" from the LORD, tying it to the well-known city of Damascus `{{H1834}}`. The mention of this land illustrates the vast scope of God's sovereignty and demonstrates how His judgment upon specific places is woven into a larger plan to draw the attention of all humanity and Israel to Himself.
TRV