from an unused root meaning to be warm, i.e. (by implication); sunburnt or swarthy (blackish); brown.
Transliteration:chûwm
Pronunciation:khoom
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H2345}}` (חוּם, *chûwm*) derives from an unused root signifying "to be warm." This etymological foundation suggests a connection to heat, which by implication leads to the concept of being "sunburnt" or "swarthy," and thus "brown" or "blackish." Its semantic range is quite narrow, primarily functioning as a color adjective. In its biblical occurrences, it specifically denotes a dark, brownish hue, distinguishing it from other colors. The underlying idea of warmth or sun exposure as the origin of this color is crucial to understanding its descriptive power, implying a natural process leading to the specific shade.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{H2345}}` appears exclusively within the narrative of Jacob and Laban in Genesis 30, always in the context of animal coloration, specifically sheep. Its five occurrences are:
* [[Genesis 30:32]]: Jacob proposes a new wage agreement with Laban, stating that all "brown" (חוּם) sheep among the lambs, and all spotted and speckled among the goats, will be his. This establishes "brown" as a distinct, identifiable characteristic.
* [[Genesis 30:33]]: Jacob reiterates his terms, specifying that any sheep found not "brown" (חוּם) will be considered stolen, reinforcing the clarity of the color designation.
* [[Genesis 30:35]]: Laban cunningly removes all "brown" (חוּם) sheep from his flock, along with the speckled and spotted goats, to prevent Jacob from acquiring them.
* [[Genesis 30:39]]: Despite Laban's efforts, the flocks bred before Jacob's peeled sticks produced "brown" (חוּם) lambs, which Jacob then separated.
* [[Genesis 30:40]]: Jacob again strategically sets the faces of the flocks toward the "brown" (חוּם) animals of Laban, further influencing the breeding outcome.
In each instance, `{{H2345}}` refers to a specific, dark color of sheep, central to Jacob's divinely-blessed strategy for increasing his wealth. The repetition underscores its importance as a key marker in the narrative of Jacob's prosperity.
### Related Words & Concepts
While `{{H2345}}` itself is unique in its specific application, it relates to a broader biblical lexicon of color terms, albeit less extensive than modern vocabularies. Other words describing dark or mixed colors include:
* `{{H7835}}` (שָׁחוֹר, *shachor*): "black," often used for hair or darkness.
* `{{H6937}}` (קָדַר, *qadar*): "to be dark," "gloomy," "mournful," often describing a state or appearance rather than a specific color.
* `{{H5344}}` (נָקֹד, *naqod*): "spotted," used for goats in [[Genesis 30:32]] alongside `{{H2345}}`.
* `{{H2921}}` (טָלֻא, *talu*): "speckled," also used for goats in [[Genesis 30:32]].
The concept of `{{H2345}}` is intrinsically linked to animal husbandry and the visual distinction of livestock. It highlights the biblical interest in observable characteristics that can signify divine favor or human ingenuity within an agricultural context.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H2345}}` is not inherent in the color itself but in its pivotal role within the narrative of God's blessing upon Jacob. The "brown" sheep become a tangible sign of God's faithfulness to His covenant with Jacob, despite Laban's repeated attempts to defraud him. God intervenes supernaturally, causing the "brown" (and speckled/spotted) animals to be born in abundance, thus ensuring Jacob's prosperity and the fulfillment of God's promise to make him fruitful. This seemingly mundane detail of animal coloration points to the meticulous nature of divine providence, demonstrating God's sovereignty over all aspects of creation, even the genetic outcomes of livestock. The word `{{H2345}}` therefore serves as a specific identifier for the divinely appointed increase of Jacob's flocks, underscoring God's active involvement in the lives of His patriarchs.
### Summary
The Hebrew word `{{H2345}}` (חוּם, *chûwm*), meaning "brown" or "sunburnt," is a descriptive term used exclusively in Genesis 30. It denotes a specific dark coloration, primarily of sheep, derived from an unused root signifying warmth. Its significance lies not in its standalone meaning but in its crucial role within the narrative of Jacob and Laban. The "brown" sheep become a key element in Jacob's strategic breeding, serving as a material manifestation of God's divine blessing and faithfulness. This word, though simple in its definition, powerfully illustrates God's meticulous providence and His commitment to His covenant people, even through the seemingly ordinary details of animal husbandry.
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