from the same as חֶלֶב; milk (as the richness of kine); [phrase] cheese, milk, sucking.
Transliteration:châlâb
Pronunciation:khaw-lawb'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma חָלָב (châlâb, `{{H2461}}`) primarily denotes "milk." Its etymological root is closely related to חֶלֶב (chelev, `{{H2459}}`), which signifies "fat" or the "richest/best part" of an animal. This etymological connection is crucial, as it underscores the ancient perception of milk as a rich, valuable, and vital substance, the "best part" derived from livestock. The semantic range of חָלָב extends beyond liquid milk to include its processed forms, such as "cheese" or "curds," as evidenced in contexts like [[1 Samuel 17:18]]. Implicitly, it also carries connotations of nourishment, purity, and abundance, reflecting its essential role in ancient diets and its symbolic use in biblical literature.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word חָלָב appears numerous times throughout the Hebrew Bible, often in contexts that highlight its significance as a dietary staple and a potent symbol of blessing.
Most prominently, חָלָב is a key component of the phrase "a land flowing with milk and honey" (e.g., [[Exodus 3:8]], [[Leviticus 20:24]], [[Numbers 13:27]], [[Deuteronomy 6:3]], [[Joshua 5:6]], [[Jeremiah 11:5]], [[Ezekiel 20:6]]). This recurring motif describes the promised land, emphasizing its fertility, abundance, and the divine provision awaiting Israel. It contrasts sharply with the barrenness of the wilderness, signifying a place of rest and prosperity.
Beyond this iconic phrase, חָלָב is mentioned as a common food item, illustrating hospitality and sustenance. Abraham offered milk and curds to his divine visitors in [[Genesis 18:8]]. Jael provided milk to Sisera in [[Judges 4:19]] and [[Judges 5:25]], a seemingly hospitable act with a deadly intent. The prophet Isaiah speaks of a diet of curds and honey for Immanuel, signifying sustenance during a time of desolation, yet also the richness of the land (e.g., [[Isaiah 7:15]], [[Isaiah 7:22]]).
In [[Deuteronomy 32:14]], Moses' song describes God's provision for Israel with "butter of kine, and milk of sheep," highlighting the abundant care and nourishment provided by the Lord. חָלָב is also used proverbially, as in [[Proverbs 30:33]], "For churning milk produces butter, and twisting a nose produces blood, and stirring up anger produces strife," illustrating a principle of cause and effect.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is חֶלֶב (chelev, `{{H2459}}`), "fat" or "richest part," from which חָלָב is derived. This etymological link underscores milk's quality as a prime, nourishing substance.
Another closely associated term is חֵמְאָה (chem'ah, `{{H2529}}`), often translated as "curdled milk," "butter," or "cream." This word frequently appears alongside חָלָב, indicating various dairy products (e.g., [[Genesis 18:8]], [[Deuteronomy 32:14]], [[Judges 5:25]], [[Proverbs 30:33]]).
The word דְּבַשׁ (devash, `{{H1706}}`), "honey," is almost invariably paired with חָלָב in the "land of milk and honey" motif, symbolizing the combined sweetness and richness of the promised land.
In the New Testament, the Greek word γάλα (gala, `{{G1051}}`), meaning "milk," carries a similar metaphorical weight. It is used to represent basic spiritual teachings, contrasted with "solid food" for mature believers (e.g., [[1 Corinthians 3:2]], [[Hebrews 5:12-13]]). This New Testament usage builds upon the Old Testament understanding of milk as fundamental, easily digestible nourishment.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of חָלָב is multifaceted:
1. **Divine Provision and Blessing:** The most profound theological implication of חָלָב is its role in the phrase "a land flowing with milk and honey." This imagery serves as a powerful symbol of God's covenant faithfulness and His lavish provision for His people. It represents not merely physical abundance but the fulfillment of divine promises, a state of blessedness and security under God's care. It speaks to a life of ease and prosperity that results from obedience and trust in the Lord.
2. **Sustenance and Life:** As a vital source of nourishment, milk points to God as the ultimate provider of all physical and spiritual sustenance. It is essential for growth and health, metaphorically extending to the spiritual life where God's word and presence sustain the believer.
3. **Purity and Wholesomeness:** Milk, in its natural state, is often associated with purity and wholesome goodness. This aligns with themes of divine purity and the unadulterated nature of God's blessings.
4. **Foundational Truths (NT Echo):** While not explicit in the Old Testament, the New Testament's use of γάλα (milk) to denote elementary spiritual truths (e.g., [[1 Corinthians 3:2]]) reflects an inherent understanding of milk as basic, foundational nourishment. This concept implicitly underscores the idea that God provides simple, digestible truths for spiritual infancy before leading believers to more complex doctrines.
### Summary
The Hebrew word חָלָב (châlâb, `{{H2461}}`) signifies "milk," drawing its etymological strength from the concept of "richness" or "the best part." Its most prominent biblical usage is within the phrase "a land flowing with milk and honey," serving as a potent symbol of divine blessing, abundant provision, and the fulfillment of God's covenant promises to Israel. Beyond this, חָלָב functions as a literal dietary staple, illustrating hospitality and basic sustenance. Theologically, it underscores God's role as the faithful provider of all physical and spiritual needs, representing a pure and wholesome source of life. The New Testament further develops the metaphor of milk as foundational spiritual nourishment, reinforcing its enduring significance as a symbol of essential sustenance and divine care.
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