from חָלַם (in the sense of insipidity); probably purslain; egg.
Transliteration:challâmûwth
Pronunciation:khal-law-mooth'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term חַלָּמוּת (challâmûwth, `{{H2495}}`) is a rare word, appearing only once in the Hebrew Bible. Its etymology is debated, but the Strong's definition links it to the root חָלַם (chalam, `{{H2492}}`) "in the sense of insipidity." This connection suggests a core meaning related to blandness, tastelessness, or lack of savor. The proposed referents are "purslain" (a succulent plant, often mild in flavor) or "egg" (specifically the white of an egg, known for its lack of strong taste). Both interpretations align with the notion of insipidity, highlighting a substance that is inherently plain or devoid of distinct flavor. The ambiguity in its precise identification (plant vs. animal product) points to the primary emphasis being on its *quality* of tastelessness rather than its specific biological identity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole occurrence of חַלָּמוּת is found in the book of Job:
[[Job 6:6]]: "Can that which is unsavoury be eaten without salt? or is there any taste in the white of an egg?" (KJV translation).
In this verse, Job is lamenting his profound suffering and the perceived lack of understanding from his friends. He poses a rhetorical question, drawing a parallel between the necessity of salt for tasteless food and the absence of any redeeming quality or understanding in his current affliction. The parallelism with תָפֵל (taphel, `{{H8602}}`), meaning "unsavoury" or "tasteless," strongly reinforces the interpretation of חַלָּמוּת as something bland or insipid. Whether translated as "white of an egg" (KJV, NASB, NET) or "juice of mallows/purslane" (ESV, NIV, JPS), the underlying concept is a substance that lacks inherent flavor and thus requires an external agent (like salt) to make it palatable or meaningful. Job uses this image to convey the bitterness and emptiness of his experience, implying that his words, like tasteless food, are being dismissed or misunderstood by his companions.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary root connection suggested by Strong's is to חָלַם (chalam, `{{H2492}}`), which typically means "to dream" or "to be healthy/strong." However, the specific note "in the sense of insipidity" for חַלָּמוּת suggests either a distinct homograph or a highly specialized semantic development of the root related to a perceived blandness or perhaps the "slime" (as in some plant juices) associated with certain dreams or states. This highlights the interpretive challenge and the unique nature of חַלָּמוּת.
Other related concepts and words in the context of [[Job 6:6]] include:
* מֶלַח (melach, `{{H4417}}`): "salt," the essential element that provides savor and preserves.
* תָפֵל (taphel, `{{H8602}}`): "unsavoury," "tasteless," "insipid," a direct parallel to חַלָּמוּת in the verse.
* טַעַם (ta'am, `{{H2940}}`): "taste," "discernment," "judgment," referring to the quality that is lacking.
The conceptual field revolves around palatability, discernment, and the value or lack thereof in things that appear empty or without substance.
### Theological Significance
The singular appearance of חַלָּמוּת in Job's lament carries significant theological weight. It serves as a powerful metaphor for the profound emptiness and lack of comprehension Job experiences in his suffering. Just as "unsavoury" food is unpalatable without salt, Job implies that his words, his very existence in his affliction, are devoid of meaning or understanding in the eyes of his friends. This speaks to the human need for empathy, validation, and substance, particularly in times of deep distress.
Theologically, חַלָּמוּת underscores the importance of discernment and genuine compassion when engaging with those who suffer. Job's friends, despite their intentions, offer "tasteless" counsel, failing to provide the "salt" of true wisdom or comfort. The word thus highlights the potential for human interaction, even well-meaning, to be devoid of spiritual nourishment or practical help if it lacks the essential ingredients of truth, empathy, and divine wisdom. It points to the reality that suffering can strip life of its perceived savor, challenging believers to find meaning and substance even in the most desolate experiences, often through the "salt" of God's presence and the wisdom He provides.
### Summary
חַלָּמוּת (challâmûwth, `{{H2495}}`) is a unique Hebrew term, appearing only once in [[Job 6:6]]. Though its precise referent is debated (either the white of an egg or a type of plant like purslane/mallow), its core meaning is consistently tied to "insipidity" or tastelessness. In Job's lament, it functions as a potent metaphor for the perceived lack of substance or understanding in his suffering and in the counsel of his friends. It highlights the human need for meaning and the "salt" of wisdom and empathy to make even bitter experiences palatable or comprehensible. Theologically, it underscores the importance of genuine discernment and compassionate engagement, reminding us that words and actions, like food, require essential qualities to be truly nourishing and meaningful.
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