### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **châlâb**, represented by `{{H2461}}`, is the primary term for **milk**. It appears 44 times across 44 unique verses. Derived from a root signifying richness, its definition encompasses not only **milk** but also related concepts such as **cheese** and the act of a young animal **sucking**. It is a fundamental word used to represent sustenance, wealth, and abundance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical texts, `{{H2461}}` is most famously used in the recurring description of the Promised Land as "a land flowing with **milk** and honey" [[Exodus 3:8]]. This phrase establishes **milk** as a powerful symbol of divine blessing and the fulfillment of God's covenant promise. The word is also used to denote basic sustenance and hospitality, as when Abraham provided **butter** and **milk** for his heavenly visitors [[Genesis 18:8]]. In a poetic sense, it describes purity and beauty, as when the Nazarites are described as "whiter than **milk**" [[Lamentations 4:7]] or when pleasant words are likened to **honey** and **milk** [[Song of Solomon 4:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for the concept of milk and abundance:
* `{{H1706}}` **dᵉbash** (honey): This word is the most frequent partner to `{{H2461}}`, forming the iconic pairing that signifies the immense fertility and richness of the land promised by God [[Numbers 14:8]].
* `{{H2100}}` **zûwb** (to flow freely): This verb gives motion to the promise, indicating that the land's provision of **milk** and honey is not merely present, but an active, overflowing abundance [[Exodus 33:3]].
* `{{H2529}}` **chemʼâh** (curdled milk or cheese; butter): Often appearing alongside **milk**, this word represents a product derived from it, signifying prosperity and rich food [[Proverbs 30:33]].
* `{{H3243}}` **yânaq** (to suck): This verb relates to the act of receiving milk, used metaphorically to describe Israel drawing sustenance from the nations [[Isaiah 60:16]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2461}}` is significant, highlighting God's role as a provider and covenant-keeper.
* **Covenantal Blessing:** The promise of a land flowing with **milk** is a tangible sign of God's faithfulness to His covenant with the patriarchs, a physical manifestation of His blessing and favor upon His people [[Deuteronomy 26:15]].
* **Divine Provision:** The word symbolizes God's gracious provision. Isaiah's invitation to "buy **wine** and **milk** without money" presents spiritual sustenance as a free gift from God, available to all who thirst [[Isaiah 55:1]].
* **Foundational Nourishment:** Milk represents the first and most basic form of nourishment. Isaiah uses the imagery of being "weaned from the **milk**" to signify a readiness for more mature spiritual understanding, establishing **milk** as the essential starting point for growth [[Isaiah 28:9]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2461}}` is far more than a simple dietary staple. It serves as a cornerstone of the biblical concept of abundance, promise, and divine care. Whether describing the fertility of the Promised Land, the purity of the righteous, or the free offer of spiritual sustenance, **châlâb** consistently points to the richness of God's blessings and His faithful provision for His people.
TRV