### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **chômeṭ**, represented by `{{H2546}}`, is defined as a type of **snail** or **lizard**. Its base definition comes from an unused root that probably means "to lie low," reflecting the creeping nature of the animal. This term is highly specific, as it appears only **1 times** across **1 unique verses** in the entire Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical appearance of `{{H2546}}` is in the book of Leviticus, within a list of unclean creeping animals that the Israelites were forbidden to touch or eat. The verse states, "And the ferret, and the chameleon, and the lizard, and the **snail**, and the mole" [[Leviticus 11:30]]. In this context, **chômeṭ** is simply one of several creatures identified as ritually impure, contributing to the detailed framework of the Mosaic Law concerning purity and dietary restrictions.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several other words for unclean creatures are listed directly alongside `{{H2546}}`, providing important context for its classification:
* `{{H604}}` **ʼănâqâh** (ferret): Defined as "some kind of lizard, probably the gecko (from its wail)," it is part of the same list of ritually impure animals in [[Leviticus 11:30]].
* `{{H3581}}` **kôach** (chameleon): This word has a dual meaning. While translated as **chameleon** here, it is also defined as "vigor" or "power" and is used in contexts describing God's strength ([[Zechariah 4:6]], [[Jeremiah 32:17]]).
* `{{H3911}}` **lᵉṭâʼâh** (lizard): This word is defined as "a kind of lizard (from its covert habits)" and appears with **chômeṭ** in the Levitical list [[Leviticus 11:30]].
* `{{H8580}}` **tanshemeth** (mole): A term for "two unclean creatures, a lizard and a bird," it is translated as **mole** in this list [[Leviticus 11:30]] but as **swan** in other passages ([[Leviticus 11:18]], [[Deuteronomy 14:16]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2546}}` is tied entirely to its role within the laws of ritual purity. It does not carry broader symbolic meaning on its own, but its inclusion in the list is significant.
* **Defining Purity:** The identification of the **snail** as unclean is a practical application of the divine commands that separated the clean from the unclean for the nation of Israel.
* **Holiness and Separation:** By outlining specific creatures to be avoided, the law in [[Leviticus 11:30]] reinforces the broader theological principle of holiness, which required Israel to be set apart from other nations through its practices.
* **Specificity of the Law:** The inclusion of a creature like the **chômeṭ** demonstrates the comprehensive and detailed nature of the covenant requirements given to the people, covering all aspects of life.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2546}}` is a narrowly defined term for a **snail** or lizard, used once in Scripture. Its significance is not found in the nature of the animal itself but in its function as part of the Levitical purity laws. Its singular mention in [[Leviticus 11:30]] serves as a clear example of the specific instructions God gave to Israel to establish them as a ritually pure and holy people.
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