### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **chûwd**, represented by `{{H2330}}`, is a primitive root meaning to "put forth." It appears just **4 times** in **4 unique verses**. Its definition, "properly, to tie a knot, i.e. (figuratively) to propound a riddle," indicates it describes the action of presenting a complex puzzle or challenge.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The usage of `{{H2330}}` is concentrated in two key narratives. In the book of Judges, it is used exclusively in the story of Samson's riddle. Samson challenges his companions, stating, "I will now **put forth** a riddle unto you" [[Judges 14:12]], and they later tell him, "**Put forth** thy riddle" [[Judges 14:13]]. The term is also used when Samson's wife confronts him for having "**put forth** a riddle" to her people [[Judges 14:16]]. In a prophetic context, God instructs Ezekiel, "Son of man, **put forth** a riddle, and speak a parable unto the house of Israel" [[Ezekiel 17:2]].
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of `{{H2330}}` is clarified by words it is consistently paired with:
* `{{H2420}}` **chîydâh** (riddle): Derived directly from `{{H2330}}`, this word means a puzzle, hard question, or dark saying. In every instance, the action of "putting forth" `{{H2330}}` is immediately followed by the object being a "riddle" `{{H2420}}`, as seen in Samson's challenge [[Judges 14:12]] and God's instruction to Ezekiel [[Ezekiel 17:2]].
* `{{H4912}}` **mâshâl** (parable): This word for a proverb or pithy maxim is used in parallel with `{{H2420}}` in the command to Ezekiel, who is told to "put forth a riddle, and speak a **parable**" [[Ezekiel 17:2]]. This links the act of propounding a riddle with the delivery of a metaphorical teaching.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H2330}}` lies in its function as a method for communication that requires deep thought and interpretation.
* **A Test of Wisdom:** In the story of Samson, the act of "putting forth" a riddle serves as a test of wits and loyalty, establishing a challenge between individuals [[Judges 14:12]].
* **Divine Communication:** The term is elevated when used by God, who commands Ezekiel to "**put forth** a riddle" [[Ezekiel 17:2]]. This shows that riddles and parables are chosen instruments for conveying divine messages to the house of Israel.
* **Prophetic Metaphor:** By being paired with both "riddle" `{{H2420}}` and "parable" `{{H4912}}`, the action of `{{H2330}}` is established as a formal way of presenting a difficult or symbolic truth that is not meant to be understood literally at first glance.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2330}}` is a specific and rare verb that describes the act of propounding a challenge, specifically a riddle. Its use in scripture, though infrequent, appears in both human interactions as a test and in divine instruction as a method for delivering a prophetic parable. It highlights a form of communication that veils truth in metaphor, demanding that the listener engage in interpretation to understand the message being **put forth**.
TRV