or חֵלֶב; from an unused root meaning to be fat; fat, whether literally or figuratively; hence, the richest or choice part; [idiom] best, fat(-ness), [idiom] finest, grease, marrow.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **cheleb**, represented by `{{H2459}}`, primarily means **fat**, but its meaning extends both literally and figuratively to represent the richest or choice part of something. It appears 92 times across 69 unique verses in the Bible. Beyond its literal meaning, it is used idiomatically to describe the very **best**, **finest**, or most desirable portion.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical contexts, `{{H2459}}` is central to the sacrificial system. From the earliest offerings, such as Abel's, the **fat** was presented as the most valued part [[Genesis 4:4]]. The Law established that "all the **fat** is the LORD'S" [[Leviticus 3:16]], making it a key element of offerings made by fire upon the altar ([[Leviticus 4:35]], [[Leviticus 9:24]]). Consequently, the people of Israel were forbidden from eating it, a perpetual statute alongside the prohibition of consuming blood [[Leviticus 3:17]]. Figuratively, the term signifies abundance and blessing, as seen when Joseph offers his family the "**fat** of the land" of Egypt [[Genesis 45:18]] or when God promises to fill his people with the "**finest** of the wheat" [[Psalms 147:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller picture of richness, offerings, and physical substance:
* `{{H2461}}` **châlâb** (milk): Derived from the same root as **cheleb**, this word signifies richness and sustenance, often associated with the blessings of a fertile land [[Deuteronomy 32:14]].
* `{{H1880}}` **deshen** (the fat; abstractly fatness): This term is used alongside **cheleb** to express deep satisfaction and abundance, as when the soul is satisfied with "**marrow** and **fatness**" [[Psalms 63:5]].
* `{{H1818}}` **dâm** (blood): Frequently paired with **fat** in prohibitions and sacrificial law, highlighting two elements of a creature's life that were reserved for God alone ([[Leviticus 3:17]], [[Ezekiel 44:15]]).
* `{{H2077}}` **zebach** (sacrifice): This is the context in which **cheleb** most often appears, as the **fat** was considered the premier portion of a sacrificial animal to be offered to the LORD [[1 Samuel 15:22]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2459}}` is significant, symbolizing concepts of consecration, blessing, and spiritual condition.
* **The Best for God:** By reserving the **fat** exclusively for the altar, the Law taught that the very best and richest part of one's possessions belongs to the LORD. It was the "food of the offering made by fire for a sweet savour" [[Leviticus 3:16]]. To hearken to God is described as better than offering the **fat** of rams [[1 Samuel 15:22]].
* **Symbol of Abundance:** Figuratively, **cheleb** represents the fullness of God's provision and blessing. This is seen in promises of the "**fat** of the land" [[Genesis 45:18]] and the "**finest** of the wheat" [[Psalms 81:16]].
* **Indicator of Spiritual Dullness:** In a negative sense, **fat** can symbolize a heart that has become unresponsive and proud. The psalmist describes the wicked as having a heart "as **fat** as grease" [[Psalms 119:70]] and being "inclosed in their own **fat**" [[Psalms 17:10]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2459}}` is a deeply meaningful term in scripture. It moves from a literal substance—the richest part of an animal—to a profound symbol. It represents the principle of giving God the best in worship, the fullness of divine blessing in everyday life, and a warning against the spiritual complacency and arrogance that can come with prosperity.
TRV