by reduplication from an unused root apparently meaning to be dark; darkly flashing (only of the eyes); in a good sense, brilliant (as stimulated by wine); red.
Transliteration:chaklîyl
Pronunciation:khak-leel'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term חַכְלִיל (chaklîyl, `{{H2447}}`) is a rare and evocative word, derived by reduplication from an unused root that apparently conveyed the sense of "to be dark." This reduplicative form suggests an intensification, resulting in a meaning related to a deep, vibrant, or flashing quality. Its primary semantic range, as indicated by its sole biblical occurrence, pertains specifically to the eyes, describing them as "darkly flashing" or, in a positive sense, "brilliant." This brilliance is particularly associated with the stimulating effect of wine, implying a lively, intense, and perhaps even alluring gaze. From this specific application, the word also carries the broader sense of "red," likely derived from the rich, deep color of wine itself, which is the catalyst for the eyes' described brilliance. Thus, חַכְלִיל encapsulates notions of deep color, intensity, vitality, and a captivating visual quality.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word חַכְלִיל (chaklîyl, `{{H2447}}`) appears only once in the entire Hebrew Bible, making it a hapax legomenon. This singular occurrence is found in Jacob's prophetic blessing upon his son Judah:
> "His eyes shall be darker than wine, and his teeth whiter than milk." [[Genesis 49:12]]
In this verse, the phrase "חַכְלִילִי עֵינַיִם מִיָּיִן" (chaklîylî 'eynayim mîyayin) directly translates to "his eyes darker/brilliant from wine." The context is a rich, poetic description of the future prosperity and power of the tribe of Judah. Jacob's prophecy paints a picture of Judah's abundant blessings, particularly concerning wine and milk, which symbolize agricultural fertility and sustenance. The "darkly flashing" or "brilliant" eyes, stimulated by wine, along with teeth "whiter than milk," serve as vivid imagery of robust health, vitality, and a life of luxurious plenty. This vivid imagery immediately follows the prophecy of Judah's enduring scepter and the coming of Shiloh ([[Genesis 49:10]]), underscoring the strength, prosperity, and regal dignity that would characterize this tribe, from whom the Messiah would ultimately descend. The intensity of the gaze, amplified by the richness of wine, speaks to Judah's inherent power and commanding presence.
### Related Words & Concepts
Given that חַכְלִיל (chaklîyl, `{{H2447}}`) is a hapax legomenon derived from an unused root, direct lexical relatives are scarce. However, its meaning and context connect it to several important biblical concepts:
* **Wine (יַיִן, `{{H3196}}`):** The primary stimulant for the "chaklîyl" eyes in [[Genesis 49:12]]. Wine in the Bible often symbolizes joy, blessing, and prosperity, but also sometimes excess or judgment. Here, it denotes abundance and the richness of Judah's inheritance.
* **Eyes (עַיִן, `{{H5869}}`):** The organ described by חַכְלִיל. Eyes in biblical thought are often windows to the soul, expressing emotion, wisdom, or intent. A "brilliant" or "darkly flashing" eye suggests a vibrant, powerful, and perhaps discerning spirit.
* **Redness (e.g., אָדֹם, `{{H122}}`):** While חַכְלִיל specifically describes the effect of wine on the eyes rather than the color of wine itself, the derived sense of "red" is plausible, given wine's color. Redness can symbolize vitality, blood, or even sin in different biblical contexts.
* **Blessing and Prosperity:** The broader context of Jacob's prophecy for Judah is one of immense blessing, including agricultural bounty (wine, milk) and preeminence among the tribes. The word contributes to this overall picture of divine favor.
### Theological Significance
The singular appearance of חַכְלִיל (chaklîyl, `{{H2447}}`) in [[Genesis 49:12]] carries profound theological weight within the context of Jacob's prophetic blessing upon Judah. This passage is foundational for understanding Judah's future role in Israelite history and salvation history. The "darkly flashing/brilliant eyes from wine" signify not merely physical abundance but also an inner vitality and strength that would characterize the tribe.
The imagery suggests:
1. **Abundance and Divine Favor:** The association with wine and milk speaks to the overflowing blessings God would bestow upon Judah, ensuring prosperity and sustenance. This is a picture of a flourishing, blessed existence.
2. **Vigor and Power:** The intense, brilliant gaze implies a robust and commanding presence. For Judah, this foreshadows its eventual preeminence among the tribes and its role as the royal tribe from which kings would emerge.
3. **Messianic Allusion:** Placed directly after the prophecy of the scepter not departing from Judah until Shiloh comes ([[Genesis 49:10]]), the "chaklîyl" eyes contribute to the portrait of the coming King. The Messiah, the Lion of Judah, would possess this inherent strength, brilliance, and a kingdom of abundant blessing. His very gaze would reflect divine authority and power. The word, therefore, subtly enhances the majestic and powerful depiction of the lineage from which the Savior would arise, whose reign would be marked by ultimate prosperity and justice.
### Summary
חַכְלִיל (chaklîyl, `{{H2447}}`) is a unique and potent Hebrew term, appearing only once in the biblical text. Its core meaning describes eyes that are "darkly flashing" or "brilliant," particularly as stimulated by wine, with a derived sense of "red." In its sole occurrence in [[Genesis 49:12]], it forms a vital part of Jacob's prophecy concerning Judah. The image of eyes "brilliant from wine" alongside teeth "white from milk" powerfully conveys the immense prosperity, robust vitality, and regal dignity destined for the tribe of Judah. Theologically, this word contributes to the rich tapestry of Judah's blessing, underscoring the divine favor, strength, and ultimate preeminence of the tribe from which the Messiah, the King of kings, would come. It paints a vivid picture of a lineage blessed with abundance and a captivating, authoritative presence.
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