from חָלַץ (in the sense of strength); only in the dual; the loins (as the seat of vigor); loins, reins.
Transliteration:châlâts
Pronunciation:khaw-lawts'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word חָלָץ (châlâts), Strong's number `{{H2504}}`, is derived from the root חָלַץ (châlâts), which carries the primary sense of "to draw out," "to deliver," or "to equip for war." When used as a noun, חָלָץ appears exclusively in the dual form, referring to the "loins" or "reins." This dual form often emphasizes the bilateral nature of the body part. Crucially, the base definition explicitly links the loins to being the "seat of vigor" or strength. Thus, חָלָץ does not merely denote an anatomical location but carries a rich semantic load, symbolizing physical power, readiness for action, and by extension, the source of procreative potential and the core of one's being. Its range extends from the literal physical location to a metaphorical representation of readiness, strength, and vulnerability.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Occurrences of חָלָץ in the Hebrew Bible consistently reinforce its meaning as the seat of strength and readiness. One of the most prominent uses is in the idiom "girding up the loins." This phrase signifies preparation for strenuous activity, whether a journey, battle, or service. For instance, during the Passover instructions, the Israelites were commanded to eat with their "loins girded" (חֲגֻרִים מָתְנֵיכֶם) [[Exodus 12:11]], indicating a state of immediate readiness for departure. Similarly, Elijah "girded up his loins" (חָגַר מָתְנָיו) to run before Ahab's chariot [[1 Kings 18:46]], demonstrating extraordinary vigor and speed. Gehazi was instructed to "gird up his loins" (חֲגֹר מָתְנֶיךָ) for a swift journey [[2 Kings 4:29]].
Beyond readiness, חָלָץ can also denote the loins as a place of vulnerability and pain, particularly in prophetic judgments or expressions of distress. In [[Isaiah 21:3]], the prophet describes his "loins filled with pain" (מָתְנַי מָלְאוּ נַחְלָעִים), akin to the pains of childbirth, signifying extreme anguish. Similarly, [[Nahum 2:10]] depicts the "melting of the loins" (וּמָתְנַיִם הַמְסֶס) as a sign of utter collapse and terror. The loins also served as the place where a warrior would wear his sword, as seen in [[2 Samuel 20:8]], further linking חָלָץ to martial readiness and power.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary root חָלַץ from which `{{H2504}}` is derived, means "to draw out," "to deliver," or "to equip for war." This connection underscores the idea of being "drawn out" or "prepared" for action, directly linking to the concept of girding the loins for readiness. Another significant related word is מָתְנַיִם (māṯnayim) `{{H4975}}`, which also translates to "loins" or "hips." While often used interchangeably with חָלָץ in various contexts, חָלָץ specifically emphasizes the aspect of strength, vigor, and agility.
Conceptually, חָלָץ is tied to:
* **Strength and Vigor:** As the "seat of vigor," it represents physical power and resilience.
* **Readiness and Preparation:** The act of "girding the loins" is a powerful metaphor for being prepared, alert, and unencumbered for a task or journey.
* **Vulnerability and Weakness:** When described as pained or melting, the loins symbolize human fragility and the overwhelming nature of distress or divine judgment.
* **Procreation:** Though less direct than יָרֵךְ (yārēḵ) `{{H3409}}` (thigh/loins, often for lineage), חָלָץ as the "seat of vigor" inherently connects to the source of life and offspring.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of חָלָץ extends beyond its anatomical reference, serving as a profound metaphor for spiritual states. The command to "gird up your loins" transcends mere physical preparation; it becomes a call to spiritual readiness, mental alertness, and moral fortitude. It implies casting off the encumbrances of the world, shedding spiritual laziness, and preparing oneself to respond swiftly and obediently to God's will or to endure His judgment. This concept is echoed in the New Testament, where believers are exhorted to have their "loins girded about with truth" [[Ephesians 6:14]] or to "gird up the loins of your mind" [[1 Peter 1:13]], emphasizing spiritual vigilance and preparedness for righteous living.
Conversely, the depiction of loins in pain or melting highlights human frailty and the devastating impact of divine judgment or overwhelming suffering. It underscores the complete vulnerability of humanity before the sovereign power of God. The imagery of weakened loins serves as a stark reminder that all human strength is ultimately dependent on the divine. Thus, חָלָץ encapsulates both the capacity for human strength and readiness, and the profound reality of human weakness and dependence, all within the context of one's relationship with the Almighty.
### Summary
The Hebrew word חָלָץ (châlâts) `{{H2504}}`, always appearing in the dual, refers to the loins as the "seat of vigor" and strength. Its semantic range encompasses not only the physical anatomical location but also profound symbolic meanings related to readiness, power, and vulnerability. Biblical occurrences consistently depict חָלָץ in contexts of "girding up the loins" for swift action, a metaphor for preparation and alertness, whether for a journey, battle, or divine command. Conversely, the loins are also portrayed as a site of pain and melting, symbolizing human frailty and the overwhelming nature of distress or judgment. Theologically, חָלָץ serves as a potent symbol for spiritual readiness, the casting off of encumbrances for divine service, and the recognition of ultimate human dependence on God, whether in strength or in weakness.
TRV