### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **chălâq**, represented by `{{H2508}}`, refers to **a part; portion**. It is a specific term, appearing only **3 times** across **3 unique verses**. Its meaning revolves around an allotted share, whether in a context of divine judgment or geopolitical territory.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word is used in two distinct contexts. In the book of Daniel, it describes the humbling fate of King Nebuchadnezzar. A heavenly decree states that his **portion** `{{H2508}}` will be with the beasts of the field, where he will be wet with the dew of heaven until seven times pass over him ([[Daniel 4:15]], [[Daniel 4:23]]). In Ezra, the term is used in a letter to the king, warning that if Jerusalem is rebuilt, he will have **no** `{{H3809}}` **portion** `{{H2508}}` in the region "on this side the river" [[Ezra 4:16]], signifying a loss of territory and authority.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words provide context for the meaning of **chălâq**:
* `{{H2423}}` **chêyvâʼ** (an animal; beast): This word is directly linked to Nebuchadnezzar's judgment, as his **portion** `{{H2508}}` is to be "with the **beasts**" ([[Daniel 4:15]], [[Daniel 4:23]]).
* `{{H1251}}` **bar** (a field; field): This specifies the location of Nebuchadnezzar's humbling, as his portion is with the beasts "of the **field**" [[Daniel 4:23]].
* `{{H7149}}` **qiryâʼ** (a city): In Ezra, the rebuilding of "this **city**" [[Ezra 4:16]] is the direct cause for the king losing his **portion** `{{H2508}}` of the territory.
### Theological Significance
The concept of `{{H2508}}` carries significant weight in its limited appearances:
* **Divine Judgment:** The word is used to describe a decreed punishment from heaven. Nebuchadnezzar's **portion** `{{H2508}}` with the beasts is not an accident but a direct consequence of his pride, as declared by a watcher and a holy one [[Daniel 4:23]].
* **Loss of Sovereignty:** In Ezra, having a **portion** `{{H2508}}` signifies control and dominion over a territory. The warning is that rebuilding the city will lead to the king having "no **portion**" [[Ezra 4:16]], a direct challenge to his rule.
* **Assigned Fate:** In both contexts, **chălâq** represents an allotted reality. For Nebuchadnezzar, it is a humbling fate to endure for seven times [[Daniel 4:23]], while for the king in Ezra, it is a potential loss of a part of his kingdom.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2508}}` **chălâq** defines an assigned share or part. Though rare, its usage powerfully illustrates concepts of divine judgment and earthly authority. It can describe the humbling fate assigned to a prideful king, whose **portion** `{{H2508}}` is with the animals [[Daniel 4:15]], or the tangible territory and influence a ruler stands to lose [[Ezra 4:16]]. The word thus encapsulates the idea of a decreed allotment, whether from God or through political events.
TRV