### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **chălôwph**, represented by `{{H2475}}`, carries the weighty idiomatic meaning of **destruction**. It appears just **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Derived from a root suggesting survival, its specific biblical usage points instead toward those who are appointed to perish or are on a path to ruin, particularly orphans or the defenseless.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H2475}}` is found in a command for righteous advocacy. The scripture exhorts, "Open thy mouth for the dumb in the cause of all such as are appointed to **destruction**" [[Proverbs 31:8]]. In this context, the word identifies a specific class of vulnerable people. They are not only voiceless but are also considered destined for ruin, making the call to intervene on their behalf an urgent moral duty.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its only context in [[Proverbs 31:8]] illuminate the meaning of `{{H2475}}`:
* `{{H6605}}` **pâthach** (to open wide): This is the primary action required in response to those facing destruction. It is a command to act, specifically by speaking out.
* `{{H483}}` **'illêm** (speechless): This word describes the condition of those for whom one must advocate. They are "dumb" or unable to plead their own case, emphasizing their profound vulnerability.
* `{{H1779}}` **dîyn** (cause, judgement, plea, strife): This term establishes the context for intervention. The advocacy is to take place within a "cause" or plea, highlighting a framework of justice where the voiceless are at risk.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2475}}` is concentrated in its singular, powerful usage. It underscores key principles of biblical ethics:
* **Advocacy for the Helpless:** The term is directly tied to the mandate to defend those who cannot defend themselves. It specifically identifies those "appointed to destruction" as subjects of this divine expectation [[Proverbs 31:8]].
* **The Pursuit of Justice:** By appearing in the context of a "cause" `{{H1779}}`, the word links the prevention of destruction to the active pursuit of justice for the poor and afflicted, a recurring theme in scripture [[Psalms 140:12]].
* **The Responsibility to Speak:** The verse establishes a moral imperative to use one's voice. It is not enough to observe the plight of the vulnerable; one is commanded to "open" `{{H6605}}` their "mouth" `{{H6310}}` to intervene on their behalf.
### Summary
In summary, **chălôwph** `{{H2475}}` is a highly specific term whose single occurrence carries immense impact. It defines not just a state of ruin, but a class of people headed for **destruction**. Its appearance in Proverbs serves as a pointed and urgent command for the righteous to intervene, using their voice to plead the cause of the voiceless and alter their otherwise desperate fate.
TRV