### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **chălîytsâh**, represented by `{{H2488}}`, is a term for **spoil** or **armour**. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses. The word denotes items taken in the aftermath of a conflict, whether as general plunder or as specific military equipment from a defeated enemy.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H2488}}` appears in contexts of conflict and victory. In the account of Samson, the Spirit of the LORD came upon him, and he slew thirty men, taking their **spoil** `{{H2488}}` to pay a debt related to a riddle [[Judges 14:19]]. In a military encounter, Abner advises the pursuing Asahel to turn aside and take the **armour** `{{H2488}}` from one of the young men, presenting it as a prize of battle [[2 Samuel 2:21]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to define the context in which **chălîytsâh** is used:
* `{{H3947}}` **lâqach** (to take): This verb is used in both instances of `{{H2488}}` to describe the action of acquiring the spoil or armour after a confrontation ([[Judges 14:19]], [[2 Samuel 2:21]]).
* `{{H5221}}` **nâkâh** (to strike): This term for slaying or smiting provides the violent context in which spoil is acquired. Samson **slew** thirty men before taking their spoil [[Judges 14:19]].
* `{{H270}}` **ʼâchaz** (to seize): In the military context of 2 Samuel, this word is used for the act of laying hold on an enemy to take his possessions [[2 Samuel 2:21]].
* `{{H2420}}` **chîydâh** (riddle): This word establishes the motive for taking the spoil in the Samson narrative, as the plunder was used to pay those who expounded the **riddle** [[Judges 14:19]].
### Theological Significance
The occurrences of `{{H2488}}` illustrate several key concepts:
* **Result of Conflict:** The word is exclusively used as a direct consequence of a violent encounter. It represents the material gain acquired by force, whether through slaying enemies [[Judges 14:19]] or in a military pursuit [[2 Samuel 2:21]].
* **Trophy of Victory:** In the exchange between Abner and Asahel, armour is treated as a trophy. Taking an enemy's **armour** `{{H2488}}` signifies personal victory and martial prowess [[2 Samuel 2:21]].
* **Divine Enablement:** The narrative in Judges links the taking of **spoil** `{{H2488}}` to divine intervention. The Spirit{H7307} of the LORD{H3068} empowered Samson to perform the act of slaying the men and taking their possessions [[Judges 14:19]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2488}}` **chălîytsâh** is a specific term referring to the tangible rewards of combat. Though appearing only twice, it clearly illustrates two facets of this concept: the general **spoil** taken from defeated foes and the specific **armour** claimed as a trophy of war. Its usage highlights that such acquisitions are the direct result of violent confrontation, as seen in the accounts of Samson and Asahel.
TRV