### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew noun `{{H2551}}` (חֶמְלָה, *chemlâh*) is derived from the verbal root `{{H2550}}` (חָמַל, *chamal*), which signifies "to spare," "to have compassion," or "to pity." As a noun, chemlâh encapsulates the quality or act of "commiseration," "pity," or "mercy." It denotes a deep feeling of empathy for another's suffering, often leading to an action of alleviation, preservation, or sparing. The semantic range extends from tender regard and compassion to the practical act of withholding punishment or refraining from harm. It is not merely a passive emotion but implies an active disposition to show clemency or to intervene mercifully.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{H2551}}` (חֶמְלָה, *chemlâh*) appears relatively infrequently in the Hebrew Bible, but its occurrences are highly significant due to their consistent contextual framing. It is predominantly found in prophetic literature (Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Zechariah) and Psalms, almost exclusively in negative constructions. This emphasizes the *absence* of pity or compassion, particularly in the context of divine judgment or human cruelty.
In [[Psalm 78:50]], the text states concerning God's judgment upon His people, "He did not spare their soul from death, but delivered their life over to the plague." Here, the lack of chemlâh highlights the severity of the divine action. Similarly, in [[Jeremiah 13:14]], God declares, "I will not pity nor spare nor have compassion, but destroy them." This passage, alongside [[Jeremiah 21:7]] and [[Ezekiel 24:21]], consistently portrays God's decision to withhold chemlâh as a direct consequence of Israel's persistent disobedience. The repetition of "without pity, without sparing, and without compassion" in these judgment passages underscores the finality and uncompromising nature of God's justice when His covenant people have exhausted His patience.
In [[Zechariah 11:5-6]], the word is used to describe human behavior, where "their own shepherds do not pity them" and God declares, "I will no longer pity the inhabitants of the land." This shows a parallel between human callousness and the subsequent withdrawal of divine compassion. The rarity of chemlâh in positive affirmations underscores the profound impact of its *absence*, serving as a stark warning of the consequences when mercy is withdrawn.
### Related Words & Concepts
`{{H2551}}` (חֶמְלָה, *chemlâh*) is intimately connected to its verbal root, `{{H2550}}` (חָמַל, *chamal*), which expresses the act of sparing or having compassion. Other significant Hebrew terms for mercy and compassion include:
* `{{H7356}}` (רַחֲמִים, *rachamim*): Often translated as "compassion" or "mercy," this term derives from the word for "womb" (racham), suggesting a deep, visceral, often maternal affection and pity. While chemlâh can denote a decision to spare, rachamim emphasizes a profound, empathetic feeling. God's mercy is frequently described with rachamim.
* `{{H2617}}` (חֶסֶד, *chesed*): This broad term encompasses "loyal love," "steadfast love," "kindness," and "mercy." It often describes God's covenant faithfulness and benevolent actions towards His people. While chemlâh focuses on the act of pity or sparing, chesed is a more encompassing relational attribute that drives merciful actions.
* `{{H5503}}` (סָלַח, *salach*): Meaning "to forgive" or "to pardon," this term relates to the remission of sin. While mercy often precedes forgiveness, chemlâh specifically denotes the act of sparing or showing pity rather than the legal act of pardoning an offense.
These terms, while distinct, collectively paint a rich picture of divine and human compassion, with chemlâh specifically highlighting the act of refraining from harm or showing clemency.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H2551}}` (חֶמְלָה, *chemlâh*) is primarily found in its consistent appearance in contexts of divine judgment. Its repeated negation serves as a powerful theological statement:
* **Divine Judgment and Justice:** The most striking implication is that God *can* and *does* withhold His compassion when justice demands it. The absence of chemlâh signifies the severity and finality of God's punitive actions against persistent rebellion. It underscores that God's judgments are not arbitrary but are the just consequence of His people's unfaithfulness, leading to the withdrawal of His characteristic mercy.
* **God's Sovereignty:** The ability of God to withhold chemlâh emphasizes His absolute sovereignty. He is not bound by a perpetual obligation to show mercy when His covenant has been repeatedly violated. This highlights the seriousness of sin and the consequences of rejecting divine grace.
* **The Nature of God's Mercy:** Paradoxically, the frequent negation of chemlâh serves to emphasize the profound value and preciousness of God's mercy when it *is* present. It implies that God's usual disposition is one of compassion, and its withdrawal is a grave and significant act. This highlights the graciousness of God's attributes like `{{H7356}}` (*rachamim*) and `{{H2617}}` (*chesed*), which are often extended despite human failing.
* **Human Responsibility:** The use of chemlâh in describing human actions (or lack thereof) also serves as a moral commentary. The absence of pity among humans (e.g., in [[Zechariah 11:5-6]]) reflects a brokenness that contrasts sharply with the divine ideal of compassion, serving as a warning against callousness and cruelty.
### Summary
The Hebrew word `{{H2551}}` (חֶמְלָה, *chemlâh*), meaning "commiseration," "pity," or "mercy," is derived from the verb `{{H2550}}` (חָמַל, *chamal*), "to spare" or "to have compassion." Its biblical occurrences are notably concentrated in contexts where this quality is *absent*, particularly in prophetic warnings and Psalms describing divine judgment. Chemlâh is frequently negated, signifying God's decision *not* to spare or show pity due to severe transgression. This highlights the gravity of judgment when God's characteristic compassion is withheld, underscoring both the severity of divine justice and, by contrast, the profound value and impact of God's mercy when it *is* extended. The word thus serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of persistent disobedience and the preciousness of divine clemency.
TRV