the same as חָלָק; bare; Chalak, a mountain of Idumaea; Halak.
Transliteration:Châlâq
Pronunciation:khaw-lawk'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term Châlâq (חָלָק, `{{H2510}}`) functions primarily as a proper noun, specifically a geographical designation. Its base definition indicates it is "the same as חָלָק," which refers to the root `{{H2509}}`. This root carries the meaning of "smooth," "bare," or "bald." Therefore, the name "Châlâq" likely describes a physical characteristic of the mountain, suggesting it was a "bare" or "smooth" peak, perhaps devoid of significant vegetation or having a rocky, unadorned appearance. Its semantic range is thus confined to its identity as a specific landmark, a mountain located in the region of Idumaea (Edom).
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Châlâq (חָלָק, `{{H2510}}`) appears twice in the Hebrew Bible, both instances serving to delineate the geographical boundaries of the land conquered by Joshua and allotted to the tribes of Israel.
* In [[Joshua 11:17]], the text states, "from Mount Halak, which ascends to Seir, even as far as Baal-gad in the Valley of Lebanon below Mount Hermon."
* Similarly, [[Joshua 12:7]] reiterates this boundary: "These are the kings of the land whom Joshua and the sons of Israel defeated beyond the Jordan, westward, from Baal-gad in the Valley of Lebanon even to Mount Halak, which ascends to Seir."
In both contexts, Mount Halak is presented as the southernmost extent of Israel's territorial conquest, directly bordering the territory of Seir, which is associated with Edom. This placement is crucial for understanding the divinely appointed limits of the Promised Land as it was being taken possession of by the Israelites. The mention of its ascent "to Seir" firmly places it within the rugged mountainous region south and east of the Dead Sea, emphasizing its role as a natural border marker.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary lexical relationship for Châlâq (חָלָק, `{{H2510}}`) is with the adjective חָלָק (chalaq, `{{H2509}}`), meaning "smooth," "bare," or "bald." This etymological connection provides insight into the descriptive nature of the mountain's name, suggesting its physical appearance. Beyond this direct linguistic link, Châlâq is conceptually related to:
* **Geographical Boundaries:** Its function as a landmark defining the limits of the conquered land.
* **Inheritance and Allotment:** It marks the extent of the territory God promised to Israel and which they were to inherit.
* **Conquest:** It signifies the successful completion of the military campaigns under Joshua, bringing the land "from" one extreme "to" another under Israelite control.
* **Seir/Edom:** Its proximity and ascent "to Seir" underscore the distinct national and territorial identities of Israel and its neighbor, Edom.
### Theological Significance
Mount Halak's theological significance is intrinsically tied to its role as a boundary marker in the narrative of Israel's land acquisition.
1. **Fulfillment of Promise:** As the southernmost limit of the land conquered by Joshua, Mount Halak stands as a tangible testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His covenant promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob regarding the extent of their descendants' inheritance ([[Genesis 15:18-21]]). The precise delineation of boundaries underscores the divine sovereignty over the land.
2. **Divine Provision and Control:** The inclusion of this specific geographical feature in the description of the conquered territory highlights that even the rugged, "bare" mountains were part of God's provision. It signifies that the entire land, from the northern reaches to the southern borders, was under divine control and granted to Israel.
3. **National Identity and Distinction:** By marking the border with Seir/Edom, Mount Halak helps define Israel's distinct national identity and territory. It emphasizes the separation between God's chosen people and the surrounding nations, even those with whom they shared ancestral ties. The "bareness" of the mountain could subtly symbolize the stark reality of divinely appointed borders, emphasizing the clear lines of God's design for His people.
### Summary
Châlâq (חָלָק, `{{H2510}}`) is a proper noun identifying a specific mountain, Mount Halak, located in the region ascending to Seir (Edom). Its name likely derives from the Hebrew word for "bare" or "smooth" (`{{H2509}}`), describing its physical appearance. Biblically, it appears in [[Joshua 11:17]] and [[Joshua 12:7]] as the southernmost boundary of the land conquered by Joshua for the Israelites. Theologically, Mount Halak serves as a crucial geographical marker, signifying the faithful fulfillment of God's covenant promises regarding the extent of the Promised Land, the comprehensive nature of His provision, and the clear delineation of Israel's divinely appointed territory from its neighbors.
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