### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **chelʼâh**, represented by `{{H2457}}`, is defined as **scum**, also carrying connotations of disease or rust. It appears 5 times across 3 unique verses, all within the book of Ezekiel. The term is used figuratively to describe a deep-seated impurity that adheres to an object.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H2457}}` is central to the parable of the boiling pot, which represents the "bloody city" [[Ezekiel 24:6]]. The Lord GOD (`{{H136}}`, `{{H3069}}`) proclaims woe upon the city, describing it as a pot whose **scum** is still inside it and has "not gone out of it" [[Ezekiel 24:6]]. This illustrates a persistent defilement that cannot be easily cleansed. Despite the efforts made, "her great **scum** went not forth out of her" [[Ezekiel 24:12]], leading to the declaration that the **scum** must be dealt with by fire.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the context of **chelʼâh**:
* `{{H5518}}` **çîyr** (pot): This is the vessel that contains the **scum** `{{H2457}}`. The parable in [[Ezekiel 24:6]] directly connects the **pot** with the **scum** inside it as a representation of the city and its sin.
* `{{H2932}}` **ṭumʼâh** (religious impurity): Used synonymously with **chelʼâh**, this word emphasizes the nature of the defilement. The pot is heated so that its **filthiness** may be molten and its **scum** consumed [[Ezekiel 24:11]].
* `{{H784}}` **ʼêsh** (fire): This represents the method of purification or destruction for the persistent **scum**. The declaration that "her scum shall be in the fire" [[Ezekiel 24:12]] shows the ultimate consequence for ingrained impurity.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2457}}` is significant within its specific context:
* **Ingrained Impurity:** The **scum** is not easily removed, symbolizing a deep and persistent sinfulness. Despite efforts, "her great **scum** went not forth out of her" [[Ezekiel 24:12]], representing a corruption that has become part of the vessel itself.
* **Marker of Guilt:** The presence of the **scum** is directly tied to the guilt of the "bloody city" [[Ezekiel 24:6]]. It serves as physical evidence of the moral and spiritual defilement that has provoked divine judgment.
* **Purification by Fire:** The inability to cleanse the **scum** by ordinary means leads to a more extreme measure. The pot must be set on the **coals** `{{H1513}}` to be burned, so that the **scum** may be consumed [[Ezekiel 24:11]], illustrating that deep sin requires a severe, refining judgment.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2457}}` **chelʼâh** is a powerful and specific term used exclusively in Ezekiel 24 to symbolize deep-seated, stubborn sin. As the **scum** in the pot, it represents the uncleanness and guilt of a people that cannot be cleansed by simple means. Its presence necessitates a fiery judgment to either purify the vessel or consume the corruption within it.
TRV