### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **chemed**, represented by `{{H2531}}`, is a term for **delight**, or something **desirable** and **pleasant**. It appears **6 times** across **6 unique verses** in the Bible, and is used to describe things of high value, ranging from agricultural abundance to esteemed people.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H2531}}` is applied in two distinct contexts. It is used to characterize the wealth of the land, as seen in descriptions of **pleasant** vineyards [[Amos 5:11]] and **pleasant** fields [[Isaiah 32:12]]. In a different context, it is used repeatedly in the book of Ezekiel to describe the **desirable** young men of Assyria and Babylon, who are noted as powerful captains and rulers ([[Ezekiel 23:6]], [[Ezekiel 23:12]], [[Ezekiel 23:23]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{H2531}}` in its various contexts:
* `{{H3754}}` **kerem** (vineyard): This word for a **vineyard** or garden is directly connected with `{{H2531}}` in passages that describe agricultural value, such as "pleasant vineyards" [[Amos 5:11]] or a "vineyard of red wine" [[Isaiah 27:2]]. A vineyard is often a symbol of fruitfulness and national blessing [[Isaiah 5:7]].
* `{{H970}}` **bâchûwr** (young man): Defined as a **selected** or choice youth, this term is consistently paired with `{{H2531}}` in Ezekiel to describe the impressive Assyrian and Babylonian leaders [[Ezekiel 23:23]]. This emphasizes that their desirability stemmed from their status and vigor.
* `{{H6346}}` **pechâh** (captain): This term for a **governor** or prefect appears with `{{H2531}}` when describing the **desirable** men of foreign nations [[Ezekiel 23:6]]. It links their desirability not just to their appearance but to their position of authority and power.
### Theological Significance
The thematic weight of `{{H2531}}` is significant, often appearing in prophetic warnings.
* **The Value of God's Blessing:** The word is used to describe the bounty of the land, including **pleasant** fields [[Isaiah 32:12]] and vineyards [[Amos 5:11]]. These **desirable** assets represent the blessings and prosperity given by God.
* **The Threat of Judgment:** The promise of these desirable things is often presented in the context of their removal. The people are warned they will plant vineyards but not drink their wine [[Amos 5:11]] and will lament for their fields [[Isaiah 32:12]], showing that what is **pleasant** can be lost due to disobedience.
* **The Allure of Worldly Power:** In Ezekiel, `{{H2531}}` is used to describe the **desirable** foreign captains and rulers upon whom Israel "doted" [[Ezekiel 23:12]]. This highlights the temptation of trusting in worldly power, an act portrayed as spiritual unfaithfulness.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2531}}` defines that which is **desirable** and **pleasant**. It is used to describe both the legitimate blessings of God, like fruitful vineyards, and the dangerous allure of worldly prestige, represented by foreign leaders. The word's usage frequently carries a prophetic warning, illustrating that the objects of human delight can become a snare or be removed by judgment when desire is misplaced.
TRV