### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **challâsh**, represented by `{{H2523}}`, denotes something that is **frail** or **weak**. It is a very rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** within the entire biblical text. This singular usage gives it a highly specific and focused meaning within its scriptural context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H2523}}` is in a prophetic call to arms in [[Joel 3:10]]. In this verse, the prophet issues a command for a complete societal transformation for battle: "let the **weak** say, I am strong". Here, **challâsh** describes a state of being that must be verbally and mentally rejected in preparation for conflict.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the context of `{{H2523}}` by providing its direct opposite and the action associated with its transformation:
* `{{H1368}}` **gibbôwr** (powerful; by implication, warrior, tyrant): This is the word for "strong" that the "weak" are commanded to claim for themselves in [[Joel 3:10]]. It often refers to a mighty man or warrior [[Jeremiah 9:23]] and is also used to describe God himself [[Isaiah 9:6]].
* `{{H3807}}` **kâthath** (to bruise or violently strike): This verb, translated as "Beat" in [[Joel 3:10]], describes the physical action of reforging agricultural tools into weapons. It is also used in prophecies where swords are beaten back into plowshares ([[Isaiah 2:4]], [[Micah 4:3]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2523}}` is found in its dramatic reversal. It highlights a divine summons that empowers the powerless.
* **A Declaration of Transformation:** The word's only context is a command for the **weak** to declare themselves strong [[Joel 3:10]]. This is not a statement of existing reality, but a prophetic call to adopt a new identity in a time of crisis.
* **The Contrast with True Might:** The state of **challâsh** stands in stark opposition to **gibbôwr** `{{H1368}}`, a term used to describe mighty warriors and, most significantly, God himself as "The mighty God" [[Isaiah 9:6]] and a "mighty terrible one" [[Jeremiah 20:11]]. The command in Joel implies a move from human frailty toward a divinely-ordained strength.
* **The Action of Commitment:** The associated verb **kâthath** `{{H3807}}` signifies a violent reshaping. Just as plowshares are beaten into swords, the identity of the **weak** is to be forcefully remade into that of a warrior.
### Summary
In summary, **challâsh** `{{H2523}}` is a sharply focused term for "frail" or "weak." Its significance comes not from frequent use, but from its singular, powerful appearance in [[Joel 3:10]]. It represents a condition that is to be cast off through a declaration of strength, transforming a state of helplessness into one of martial readiness. The word exists to be contradicted and overcome, painting a vivid picture of empowerment in the face of conflict.
TRV