### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **châm**, represented by `{{H2525}}`, is a term for **hot** or **warm**. It appears just **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Its meaning is directly related to the physical sensation of heat.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H2525}}` is applied in distinct physical contexts. In Job, it is used to question how one's garments{H899} become **warm** when God quieteth{H8252} the earth{H776} with the south{H1864} wind [[Job 37:17]]. It is also used in the narrative of the Gibeonites, who deceive the Israelites by presenting their now mouldy{H5350} bread{H3899}, claiming they took it **hot** for their provision{H6679} on the day{H3117} they began their journey [[Joshua 9:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the concept of being hot or warm:
* `{{H3001}}` **yâbêsh** (to dry up): This word is used in direct contrast to `{{H2525}}`. The Gibeonites' bread was taken **hot** from their houses, but upon their arrival, it is described as **dry** and mouldy [[Joshua 9:12]].
* `{{H1864}}` **dârôwm** (the south): This term identifies the source of the warmth in Job. The **south** wind is associated with the conditions that make garments feel **warm** [[Job 37:17]].
* `{{H3899}}` **lechem** (food, especially bread): This is the object described as **hot** in the Joshua narrative. The state of the **bread** is central to the Gibeonites' deception [[Joshua 9:12]].
* `{{H899}}` **beged** (a covering, i.e. clothing): This is the item that becomes **warm** in Job's observation about God's power over the elements [[Job 37:17]].
### Theological Significance
While not a major theological term, `{{H2525}}` contributes to the narratives in which it appears:
* **Divine Control Over Nature:** In the book of Job, the warmth of one's garments is presented as a direct result of God's command over the elements, specifically His power to "quieteth the earth by the south wind" [[Job 37:17]]. This illustrates God's sovereignty in a tangible, everyday experience.
* **Marker of Time and Deception:** The word is used by the Gibeonites to establish a false timeline. By claiming their bread was **hot** when they left their homes, they created a powerful, albeit deceptive, sign of their long journey, leading Israel into a binding covenant [[Joshua 9:12]].
### Summary
In summary, **châm** `{{H2525}}` is a specific and infrequently used term for **hot** or **warm**. Its two appearances are nonetheless significant. It is used to illustrate both God's magnificent control over the natural world and as a key detail in a human narrative of cunning and deception. Though simple, `{{H2525}}` demonstrates how even basic descriptive words are employed in scripture to build arguments, establish context, and convey deeper narrative truths.
TRV