a primitive root; to blanch (as with shame); wax pale.
Transliteration:châvar
Pronunciation:khaw-var'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew root `{{H2357}}` (châvar) is a primitive root carrying the core meaning of "to be white" or "to grow pale." Its semantic range extends from this literal physical manifestation to a figurative sense, primarily indicating a blanching or paling *as with shame*, terror, or dismay. This suggests that the physical act of turning pale is seen as an outward sign of an intense inner emotional state, particularly one of distress, humiliation, or fear. It captures the visible effect of a profound internal disquietude, where the blood drains from the face, leaving it without color.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The root `{{H2357}}` appears only once in the Hebrew Bible in its Qal stem, making its singular occurrence particularly poignant and significant.
* **[[Isaiah 29:22]]**: "Therefore thus says the LORD, who redeemed Abraham, concerning the house of Jacob: 'Jacob shall not now be ashamed, nor shall his face now wax pale.'"
In this prophetic context, the Lord, identified as the redeemer of Abraham, promises a future for the house of Jacob (Israel) free from the twin afflictions of shame and paleness. The phrase "wax pale" (יֶחֱוָרוּ - yechevaru) stands in parallel with "be ashamed" (יֵבוֹשׁ - yevosh), underscoring the close semantic relationship between these two states. The paleness here is not merely a physical condition but a visible manifestation of deep inner distress, humiliation, or fear, likely brought about by judgment or defeat. The divine promise of redemption and restoration means that Israel will no longer experience the overwhelming shame and terror that would cause their faces to blanch. This verse highlights the Lord's steadfast love and His commitment to His covenant people, ensuring their honor and security rather than leaving them to the public display of their distress.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept of paleness as an indicator of emotional state connects `{{H2357}}` with several related words and themes in the Hebrew Bible:
* **Shame/Disgrace**: The parallel construction in [[Isaiah 29:22]] with `{{H954}}` (bosh, "to be ashamed") clearly links paleness to a state of disgrace or humiliation. Other words for shame include `{{H3637}}` (kalam).
* **Fear/Terror**: While not explicitly stated, the act of "waxing pale" is often a physiological response to intense fear, dread, or terror. Words like `{{H6342}}` (pachad, "dread, terror") or `{{H3372}}` (yare, "to fear") convey these emotions.
* **Color Terms**: The root's primary meaning of "to be white" connects it to other Hebrew words denoting whiteness, such as `{{H3835}}` (lavan) or `{{H6705}}` (tsach), though `{{H2357}}` uniquely applies this physical state to an emotional consequence.
* **Divine Judgment and Restoration**: The context of [[Isaiah 29:22]] places the potential for paleness within the framework of divine judgment (from which Jacob is delivered) and the subsequent divine restoration. This connects it to broader themes of sin, repentance, and God's redemptive work.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of `{{H2357}}` in [[Isaiah 29:22]] carries profound theological weight. It serves as a vivid metaphor for the human condition under duress, particularly when facing divine displeasure or the consequences of sin. The act of "waxing pale" signifies a deep-seated spiritual and emotional crisis, a visible loss of vital energy and confidence.
The theological significance is primarily seen in its contrast: God's redemptive work ensures that His people will *not* experience this state. The Lord, who redeemed Abraham, extends this same redemptive power to Jacob, promising an end to the shame and terror that causes one to blanch. This speaks to:
1. **God's Faithfulness and Covenant Love**: His promise to prevent Jacob's face from waxing pale demonstrates His unwavering commitment to His covenant and His desire for His people's well-being and honor.
2. **Divine Restoration and Security**: The absence of paleness is a sign of divine favor, security, and peace. It indicates that God has intervened to remove the cause of distress, whether it be sin, judgment, or enemy oppression.
3. **The Visible Manifestation of Spiritual State**: The word underscores how inner spiritual and emotional states (shame, fear, despair) can manifest physically. Conversely, the absence of such physical signs speaks to a state of spiritual health and divine protection.
### Summary
The Hebrew root `{{H2357}}` (châvar), meaning "to blanch" or "wax pale," is a rare but powerful term in the biblical lexicon. Its single occurrence in [[Isaiah 29:22]] vividly portrays the physical manifestation of deep emotional distress, particularly shame or terror. In this context, the Lord's promise that Jacob's face "shall not now wax pale" stands as a testament to His redemptive power and covenant faithfulness. It signifies divine intervention that removes the causes of humiliation and fear, granting His people security and honor. Thus, `{{H2357}}` serves as a poignant reminder of the visible consequences of human fragility and the profound, restorative grace of God.
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