probably from חָלַם (in the sense of hardness); flint; flint(-y), rock.
Transliteration:challâmîysh
Pronunciation:klal-law-meesh'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term חַלָּמִישׁ (challâmîysh, `{{H2496}}`) denotes "flint" or "hard rock." Its etymology is likely connected to the root חָלַם (chalam), which can convey the sense of hardness, firmness, or strength, particularly in a physical context. Thus, חַלָּמִישׁ refers to a stone characterized by its extreme density, unyielding nature, and resistance to breakage. Flint, a cryptocrystalline form of quartz, is exceptionally hard and capable of producing sparks when struck, making it valuable in ancient cultures for tools, weapons, and fire-starting. The semantic range of חַלָּמִישׁ therefore extends from a literal, specific type of stone to a metaphorical representation of unyielding hardness, steadfastness, or an impenetrable quality, whether in a physical object or a personal characteristic.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term חַלָּמִישׁ appears four times in the Hebrew Bible, each instance offering unique insights into its usage:
1. **[[Deuteronomy 8:15]]**: "who brought you forth water out of the rock of flint" (מִצּוּר הַחַלָּמִישׁ). In this verse, Moses reminds Israel of God's miraculous provision in the wilderness. The phrase "rock of flint" emphasizes the utter impossibility, from a human perspective, of water emerging from such a hard and dry source. It highlights God's omnipotence and His ability to sustain His people even in the most barren conditions.
2. **[[Psalm 114:8]]**: "who turned the rock into a pool of water, the flint into a fountain of waters" (חַלָּמִישׁ לְמַעְיְנוֹ מָיִם). This poetic parallelism echoes the miracle of water from the rock, celebrating God's transformative power over creation. The juxtaposition of "rock" (צוּר, `{{H6697}}`) and "flint" underscores the extreme hardness of the source, magnifying the divine intervention.
3. **[[Job 28:9]]**: "He puts forth his hand on the flinty rock" (חַלָּמִישׁ). This verse is part of a profound meditation on human wisdom and ingenuity in mining. Here, חַלָּמִישׁ describes the formidable, unyielding nature of the earth's crust that humanity must contend with to extract precious metals. It speaks to the arduousness of human labor and the skill required to conquer such natural resistance.
4. **[[Isaiah 50:7]]**: "for I have set my face like a flint" (כַּחַלָּמִישׁ). This is a powerful metaphorical usage within the "Suffering Servant" passages. The Servant declares an unwavering resolve and determination in the face of opposition and scorn. Just as flint is hard and unyielding, so too is the Servant's commitment to God's will and His mission, demonstrating an unshakeable steadfastness that will not be deterred.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several Hebrew terms share semantic overlap with חַלָּמִישׁ in denoting types of rock or stone:
* צוּר (tsur, `{{H6697}}`): A general term for "rock" or "cliff," often used to describe a strong, protective refuge, or metaphorically for God Himself as a "Rock." It frequently appears in parallel with חַלָּמִישׁ, as seen in [[Psalm 114:8]].
* סֶלַע (sela', `{{H5553}}`): Refers to a "crag," "cliff," or "rock," often implying a larger, more prominent geological formation.
* אֶבֶן (ʾeven, `{{H68}}`): The most common and general term for "stone."
These related words reinforce the concept of hardness and solidity inherent in חַלָּמִישׁ. Beyond literal stone, related concepts include:
* **Hardness/Firmness**: The intrinsic quality of חַלָּמִישׁ points to an unyielding nature, whether of a physical object or a characteristic.
* **Steadfastness/Resolve**: As seen in Isaiah, חַלָּמִישׁ metaphorically portrays an unshakeable commitment and determination.
* **Divine Power**: The miraculous provision of water from חַלָּמִישׁ highlights God's omnipotence and ability to overcome natural impossibilities.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of חַלָּמִישׁ is multifaceted, touching upon divine power, human resolve, and the nature of creation.
Firstly, and most prominently, חַלָּמִישׁ serves as a powerful symbol of **God's miraculous provision and omnipotence**. The account of water gushing from the "rock of flint" in the wilderness (Deuteronomy, Psalm) underscores that no obstacle is too great for the Creator. Even from the most barren and unyielding source, God can bring forth life and sustenance for His people. This miracle testifies to His faithfulness and His ability to transcend natural limitations for the sake of His covenant promises. It is a profound declaration that divine grace can flow even from seemingly impossible circumstances.
Secondly, in the prophetic context of Isaiah, חַלָּמִישׁ embodies **unwavering resolve and obedience**. The Servant's declaration, "I have set my face like a flint," speaks to an absolute, unyielding commitment to God's purpose, even in the face of suffering and opposition. This serves as a model of steadfast faith and determined obedience for believers, particularly in times of trial. For Christian theology, this passage is often understood as a prophecy of Christ's resolute journey to the cross, demonstrating His perfect and unshakeable will to fulfill the Father's plan.
Lastly, the use of חַלָּמִישׁ in Job highlights the **challenging nature of creation and human labor**. It reminds humanity of the inherent resistance in the physical world, requiring immense effort and ingenuity to harness its resources. While a testament to human skill, it also subtly points to the toil and struggle inherent in a fallen world, yet within which God's wisdom is still discernible.
### Summary
חַלָּמִישׁ (challâmîysh, `{{H2496}}`) primarily denotes "flint" or "hard rock," rooted in the concept of hardness and firmness. Its biblical occurrences reveal a rich semantic range. Literally, it describes the unyielding nature of stone from which God miraculously provided water, powerfully illustrating His omnipotence and faithful provision in the wilderness. Metaphorically, חַלָּמִישׁ symbolizes unwavering resolve and steadfast commitment, most profoundly seen in the Suffering Servant's determination in Isaiah. It also appears in contexts describing the arduousness of human labor in extracting resources from the earth. Thus, חַלָּמִישׁ stands as a testament to God's ability to bring forth life from the impossible and a profound metaphor for unshakeable faith and resolute obedience.
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