### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **chănâmâl**, represented by `{{H2602}}`, is a term of uncertain derivation which means **frost**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**, making it one of the rarer words in the biblical text. Its single usage firmly places it within the context of natural forces used for destruction.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H2602}}` is in [[Psalms 78:47]], which recounts God's powerful acts. The verse states, "He destroyed their vines with hail, and their sycomore trees with **frost**." In this passage, **frost** is an agent of divine judgment, working in parallel with hail to wipe out the agricultural assets of the disobedient. The context is a historical summary of God's power and Israel's unfaithfulness.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the role and impact of **chănâmâl** in its single biblical context:
* `{{H1259}}` **bârâd** (hail): This word is used alongside **frost** in its only appearance, where hail destroys the vines [[Psalms 78:47]]. It consistently appears as an instrument of divine power, as seen when God rained **hail** upon the land of Egypt as a plague [[Exodus 9:23]].
* `{{H2026}}` **hârag** (destroy): This verb, defined as "to smite with deadly intent," is the action carried out by the **frost** in [[Psalms 78:47]]. The severity of this term underscores that the frost is not a mere weather event but a fatal blow. Its usage ranges from Cain, who **slew** his brother Abel [[Genesis 4:8]], to divine commands to **slay** utterly [[Ezekiel 9:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H2602}}` is derived entirely from its singular, powerful context in Psalms 78.
* **Instrument of Judgment:** **Frost** is depicted as a tool used by God to execute judgment. It is not a random occurrence but a specific weapon directed against the sycomore trees, representing a targeted destruction of livelihood [[Psalms 78:47]].
* **Sovereignty over Nature:** The use of **frost** alongside hail demonstrates God's absolute command over the elements of the natural world. This aligns with the broader biblical theme of nature fulfilling God's word, as expressed in [[Psalms 148:8]].
* **Destructive Power:** The pairing of **frost** with the verb "to destroy" `{{H2026}}` highlights the lethal capacity of this natural force when wielded by God, showing that even something as seemingly mundane as frost can become an agent of immense power.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2602}}` is a highly specific term whose meaning is defined by its sole appearance in scripture. As **frost**, it serves as a clear and potent symbol of divine judgment. Used in parallel with hail `{{H1259}}` to destroy `{{H2026}}` the sycomore trees, it illustrates God's sovereignty over the natural world and His ability to use any part of creation to fulfill His purposes.
TRV