### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **chûwç**, represented by `{{H2347}}`, is a primitive root that means to **pity, regard, or spare**. Its core definition is "properly, to cover, i.e. (figuratively) to compassionate." This term appears **24 times** across **24 unique verses**, often depicting a momentous decision to either show mercy or execute judgment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{H2347}}` is frequently found in the context of divine judgment. God declares His eye will not **spare** those who defile His sanctuary [[Ezekiel 5:11]] or who persist in their abominations [[Ezekiel 7:4]]. Similarly, God commands Israel that their own eyes should not **pity** those who would lead them astray or who have committed certain transgressions, ensuring that justice is carried out ([[Deuteronomy 7:16]], [[Deuteronomy 19:13]]). Conversely, the word is used in pleas for mercy, as when the priests cry out for God to **spare** His people [[Joel 2:17]]. God's own sovereign compassion is highlighted when He asks, "should not I **spare** Nineveh, that great city?" [[Jonah 4:11]]. A distinct usage appears in Joseph's instruction to his brothers to not **regard** their belongings, extending the meaning to a lack of concern [[Genesis 45:20]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words explore the nuances of compassion and judgment:
* `{{H2550}}` **châmal**: Defined as "to commiserate; by implication, to spare," this word is often paired directly with `{{H2347}}` to emphasize a complete lack of pity. In passages of judgment, God states He will not **spare** `{{H2347}}` nor have **pity** `{{H2550}}` [[Jeremiah 21:7]].
* `{{H7355}}` **râcham**: Meaning "to love, especially to compassionate; have mercy," this term is also used alongside `{{H2347}}` and `{{H2550}}` in God's declaration that He will destroy Judah without pity, sparing, or mercy [[Jeremiah 13:14]]. It points to a deep, tender compassion.
* `{{H5162}}` **nâcham**: This word means "to be sorry... to pity, console or... rue." It appears with `{{H2347}}` when God states His judgment is final: "I will not go back, neither will I **spare** `{{H2347}}`, neither will I **repent** `{{H5162}}`" [[Ezekiel 24:14]], showing the resolution of His decision.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2347}}` is significant, revealing key aspects of God's character and His dealings with humanity.
* **Divine Justice:** The withholding of pity is a profound expression of God's righteousness. When God says His "eye shall not **spare**," it is a direct consequence of sin and abomination [[Ezekiel 8:18]]. This demonstrates that divine justice is not swayed by sentiment when holiness is violated.
* **Sovereign Mercy:** The act of sparing is an exercise of God's sovereign will. He chooses to **spare** Nineveh [[Jonah 4:11]] and the poor and needy [[Psalms 72:13]]. This is not an obligation but a display of His compassionate nature, which He extends according to His own purpose.
* **Intercession and Relationship:** The use of `{{H2347}}` in prayer shows the importance of intercession. The priests in Joel's time and Nehemiah both appeal to God to **spare** them and the people, demonstrating a belief that God's mind can be appealed to through repentance and prayer ([[Joel 2:17]], [[Nehemiah 13:22]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2347}}` is a dynamic term that encapsulates the critical choice between judgment and mercy. It is far more than a simple feeling of pity; it is a consequential action that determines destiny. Whether withheld to enact perfect justice or granted as an act of sovereign compassion, **chûwç** is a word that illustrates the profound tension between God's holiness and His mercy.
TRV