of uncertain derivation; perhaps the aphis or plantlouse; frost.
Transliteration:chănâmâl
Pronunciation:khan-aw-mawl'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word `{{H2602}}` (חֲנָמָל, *chănâmâl*) is of uncertain etymological derivation, presenting a challenge to precise definition. Lexicographical resources typically offer two primary possibilities for its meaning: "aphis" or "plantlouse," and "frost." The former suggests a small insect pest, while the latter refers to a meteorological phenomenon. Due to its singular occurrence in the biblical text, the contextual evidence becomes paramount in discerning its most probable meaning. The prevailing scholarly consensus, strongly supported by the immediate context, leans towards "frost" as the intended meaning, denoting a destructive natural force.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{H2602}}` appears only once in the entire Hebrew Bible, in [[Psalm 78:47]]. This psalm recounts God's mighty acts on behalf of Israel, particularly focusing on the Exodus and the subsequent wilderness wanderings, contrasting Israel's rebellion with God's faithfulness.
[[Psalm 78:47]] states: "He destroyed their vines with hail, and their sycamore trees with frost." This verse is part of a larger section (verses 43-51) detailing the plagues inflicted upon Egypt. The pairing of `{{H2602}}` with "hail" (`{{H1259}}`, *bārād*) is crucial. Hail is a destructive meteorological event, and "frost" fits perfectly within this category of natural calamities. Both hail and frost are known to cause significant damage to agriculture, specifically to vines and sycamore trees, which are mentioned as targets of this destruction. The context therefore strongly supports the interpretation of `{{H2602}}` as "frost," signifying a natural agent of divine judgment. This destruction of Egyptian crops served as a demonstration of Yahweh's power over creation and His judgment against Pharaoh and the Egyptians.
### Related Words & Concepts
Given the strong contextual indication of "frost," related words and concepts primarily revolve around meteorological phenomena and divine judgment through natural means.
* **`{{H1259}}` ( *bārād* )**: "Hail," directly paired with `{{H2602}}` in [[Psalm 78:47]], reinforcing the idea of destructive weather.
* **`{{H7140}}` ( *qeraḥ* )**: This word more commonly denotes "ice" or "frost" (e.g., [[Genesis 31:40]], [[Job 38:29]], [[Psalm 147:17]]). Its existence suggests a more common term for frost, making `{{H2602}}` a rarer or more specific term, perhaps emphasizing the destructive aspect.
* **`{{H7139}}` ( *qār* )**: "Cold," a broader term for low temperature (e.g., [[Proverbs 25:25]]).
* **`{{H7949}}` ( *sheleg* )**: "Snow," another form of cold precipitation (e.g., [[Psalm 147:16]], [[Psalm 148:8]]).
The concept of God using natural elements like hail, frost, and other plagues (e.g., locusts, pestilence) as instruments of judgment is a recurring theme in the biblical narrative, particularly in the Exodus account.
### Theological Significance
The singular appearance of `{{H2602}}` as "frost" in [[Psalm 78:47]] carries significant theological weight. It underscores several key aspects of God's character and interaction with humanity:
1. **Divine Sovereignty over Creation**: The Lord is depicted as having absolute control over the natural world, including destructive forces like frost. He commands the elements to fulfill His purposes, whether in judgment or blessing.
2. **God as Judge**: The use of frost, alongside hail, as a means of destroying the Egyptians' agricultural resources highlights God's role as a righteous judge. These acts were not random occurrences but precise, targeted judgments against those who defied Him and oppressed His people.
3. **The Fragility of Human Endeavors**: Even the most robust agricultural efforts and the seemingly unyielding strength of trees are vulnerable to God's power. This serves as a reminder of human dependence on divine favor and the ultimate futility of resisting God's will.
4. **Retributive Justice**: The destruction of "vines" and "sycamore trees" reflects a form of poetic justice, as these were vital to the Egyptian economy and way of life, demonstrating God's ability to dismantle the foundations of their power.
### Summary
The Hebrew word `{{H2602}}` (חֲנָמָל, *chănâmâl*), though of uncertain etymology, is best understood as "frost" based on its sole biblical occurrence in [[Psalm 78:47]]. In this verse, it is paired with "hail" as an instrument of divine judgment against Egypt, destroying their vines and sycamore trees. This rare word powerfully illustrates God's absolute sovereignty over creation, His role as a just judge, and the destructive capacity of natural elements when wielded by His hand. It serves as a stark reminder of the Lord's power to execute His will and to dismantle the foundations of those who oppose Him.
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