### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **chên**, represented by `{{H2580}}`, primarily means **graciousness**. It appears **69 times** across **67 unique verses**. The term can refer to subjective kindness and favor, or to objective beauty and pleasantness. It is used to describe favor found in the eyes of both God and man.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H2580}}` is frequently used in the context of finding unmerited acceptance. The foundational use of this concept is seen when Noah **found grace** in the eyes of the LORD [[Genesis 6:8]]. This theme of seeking and receiving favor continues with figures like Joseph, who **found grace** in his master's sight [[Genesis 39:4]], and Moses, who pleaded with God, "if I have **found grace** in thy sight, shew me now thy way" [[Exodus 33:13]]. The term is also used to describe a desirable quality, as in Proverbs where a **gracious** woman retains honor [[Proverbs 11:16]], though it is also noted that **favour** can be deceitful when compared to the fear of the LORD [[Proverbs 31:30]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to clarify the meaning of `{{H2580}}`:
* `{{H2617}}` **chêçêd** (kindness, mercy): This word often appears alongside `{{H2580}}` to describe an act of profound kindness. God **shewed** Joseph **mercy**, and gave him **favour** in prison [[Genesis 39:21]], and Esther obtained **grace** and **favour** in the king's sight [[Esther 2:17]].
* `{{H3519}}` **kâbôwd** (glory, honour): This term represents the honor and splendor that can result from receiving grace. The LORD will give **grace** and **glory** [[Psalms 84:11]], and a **gracious** woman is one who retains **honour** [[Proverbs 11:16]].
* `{{H4672}}` **mâtsâʼ** (to find): This verb is very frequently paired with `{{H2580}}` to form the phrase "to **find** grace" or "to **find** favour." This construction is used by individuals seeking acceptance from a superior, such as Jacob before Esau [[Genesis 32:5]] or Ruth before Boaz [[Ruth 2:10]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2580}}` is significant, particularly in understanding God's relationship with humanity.
* **Divine Gift:** Grace is presented not as something earned, but as a gift from God. The LORD gives **grace** to the lowly [[Proverbs 3:34]] and promises that "no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly" [[Psalms 84:11]].
* **Sovereign Favor:** The concept is a cornerstone of divine election and salvation. Noah **found grace** when the world was otherwise condemned [[Genesis 6:8]], and the people of Israel who survived the sword **found grace** in the wilderness [[Jeremiah 31:2]].
* **Spiritual Transformation:** Grace is linked to the work of God's spirit. God promises to pour upon the house of David "the spirit of **grace** and of supplications," leading to a deep sense of mourning and repentance [[Zechariah 12:10]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2580}}` moves beyond a simple definition of charm or pleasantness to become a key theological term. It represents the favor that can be sought between people but is most powerfully expressed as a gift bestowed by God. Whether it is Noah finding **grace** before the flood, or the promise of a future spirit of **grace**, the word illustrates a foundational principle of divine kindness that is found, given, and ultimately transformative.
TRV