a primitive root; properly, to bind firmly, i.e. (by implication) to be (causatively to make) plump; also (through the figurative sense of dumbness) to dream; (cause to) dream(-er), be in good liking, recover.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **châlam**, represented by `{{H2492}}`, is a primitive root with a dual meaning. Primarily, it signifies **to dream**, but its root definition, "to bind firmly," also leads to the meanings **to be plump**, **in good liking**, or **to recover**. It appears 29 times across 25 unique verses, encompassing both supernatural revelation and physical well-being.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H2492}}` is a key verb for describing divine communication. Jacob **dreamed** of a ladder reaching to heaven, receiving a covenant promise from God [[Genesis 28:12]]. Joseph's life is defined by dreams; he first **dreamed** of his family bowing to him, which provoked the hatred of his brothers [[Genesis 37:5]]. Later, he interprets the dreams of Pharaoh's officials [[Genesis 40:5]] and of Pharaoh himself [[Genesis 41:1]]. The word is also used to warn against false prophecy, as in the law concerning a "dreamer of dreams" who attempts to lead Israel astray [[Deuteronomy 13:5]]. In a positive prophetic sense, God promises that when He pours out His spirit, "your old men shall **dream** dreams" [[Joel 2:28]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which `{{H2492}}` is used:
* `{{H2472}}` **chălôwm** (a dream; dream(-er)): This is the noun form that frequently appears with its verbal counterpart. The phrase "dreamed a **dream**" is common, as seen in the accounts of Joseph [[Genesis 37:5]], Pharaoh [[Genesis 41:15]], and Nebuchadnezzar [[Daniel 2:3]].
* `{{H6622}}` **pâthar** (to... interpret (a dream)): This verb is essential to the dream narratives in Genesis. When the butler and baker are troubled by their dreams, they state there is "no **interpreter** of it" [[Genesis 40:8]], establishing the need for a divine gift of interpretation.
* `{{H5030}}` **nâbîyʼ** (a prophet or (generally) inspired man): The roles of prophet and dreamer are closely intertwined. Scripture warns against a **prophet** or a dreamer of dreams who speaks to turn the people from the LORD [[Deuteronomy 13:5]], and God rebukes prophets who claim to have dreamed when He has not sent them [[Jeremiah 29:8]].
* `{{H6974}}` **qûwts** (to awake): This word provides a direct contrast to the state of dreaming. The futility of a dream is illustrated when a thirsty man dreams he drinks, but he **awaketh** and is faint [[Isaiah 29:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2492}}` is significant and varied:
* **Divine Revelation:** God consistently uses dreaming as a channel to reveal His will, future events, and covenant promises. This is evident from Jacob's experience at Bethel [[Genesis 28:12]] to the promise of the Spirit being poured out upon all flesh [[Joel 2:28]].
* **Warning Against Deception:** Scripture sets a clear distinction between true and false dreams. God warns against hearkening to prophets who use dreams to deceive [[Jeremiah 29:8]] and even establishes that a dreamer can be a test of Israel's faithfulness to Him [[Deuteronomy 13:3]].
* **Metaphor for Experience:** Dreaming is used metaphorically to describe human experience. The joy of Zion's restoration was so great it felt unreal, "we were like them that **dream**" [[Psalms 126:1]]. It also represents unfulfilled longing, as when a hungry man **dreameth** he eats, only to awake empty [[Isaiah 29:8]].
* **Physical Restoration:** The word's alternate meaning points to God's power over physical health. In his sickness, Hezekiah prays, "so wilt thou **recover** me, and make me to live" [[Isaiah 38:16]]. This connects to the root idea of being made firm or whole.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2492}}` is a complex term that extends beyond the simple act of dreaming. It serves as a primary method of divine communication and prophecy, a stark warning against spiritual deception, a metaphor for profound human emotions, and a term for physical restoration. Whether describing Jacob's ladder or a false prophet's lies, **châlam** highlights the critical intersection of God's will and human perception.
TRV