a primitive root; (compare בָּטַח); to flee for protection; figuratively, to confide in; have hope, make refuge, (put) trust.
Transliteration:châçâh
Pronunciation:khaw-saw'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew root H2620 (חָסָה, *châçâh*) is a primitive verb carrying the fundamental meaning of "to flee for protection" or "to seek refuge." This core sense implies an active, intentional movement away from danger and towards a place or person of safety. From this literal understanding, the word extends figuratively to encompass the act of "confiding in," "trusting," or "having hope." It denotes a deep reliance and dependence upon a chosen protector, recognizing one's own vulnerability and the superior strength or trustworthiness of another. While it shares semantic overlap with `{{H0982}}` (בָּטַח, *bâṭaḥ*), which means "to trust" or "be confident," châçâh often carries a more immediate connotation of seeking shelter *from* a present or anticipated threat, emphasizing the protective aspect of the one trusted. It is not merely a passive state of confidence but an active posture of seeking and finding security.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb châçâh appears frequently in the Old Testament, particularly in the Psalms, where it often describes the psalmist's reliance upon God in times of distress. A prominent theme is the Lord as the ultimate refuge and stronghold. For instance, in [[Psalm 7:1]], the psalmist cries out, "O Lord my God, in you I take refuge; save me from all my pursuers and deliver me!" Similarly, [[Psalm 11:1]] declares, "In the Lord I take refuge; how can you say to my soul, 'Flee like a bird to your mountain'?" This highlights a deliberate choice to trust God over other perceived means of escape or security.
The imagery associated with châçâh often involves seeking shelter "under the wings" of God, as seen in [[Psalm 57:1]] ("Be gracious to me, O God, be gracious to me, for in you my soul takes refuge; in the shadow of your wings I will take refuge, till the storms of destruction pass by") and [[Psalm 91:4]] ("He will cover you with his pinions, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness is a shield and buckler"). This evokes a powerful picture of divine protection, akin to a mother bird shielding her young.
The concept is not limited to individual supplication but also appears in wisdom literature, emphasizing the blessedness of those who trust in the Lord. [[Proverbs 30:5]] states, "Every word of God proves true; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him." This links God's truthfulness and reliability directly to His role as a refuge. Conversely, prophetic texts sometimes contrast taking refuge in God with trusting in human alliances or idols, as in [[Isaiah 30:2]], where reliance on Egypt is implicitly condemned over trust in the Lord.
### Related Words & Concepts
H2620 is closely related to its derived noun `{{H4268}}` (מַחְסֶה, *maḥseh*), meaning "refuge" or "shelter," which frequently refers to God Himself (e.g., [[Psalm 14:6]]). Other related terms that convey aspects of security or trust include:
* `{{H0982}}` (בָּטָח, *bâṭaḥ*): "to trust, to be confident." While both châçâh and bâṭaḥ speak of trust, châçâh often emphasizes the active seeking of protection from external threats, whereas bâṭaḥ can denote a more general state of confidence or security.
* `{{H4082}}` (מָעוֹז, *mâ‘ôz*): "stronghold, fortress." This noun often describes God as a place of defense and strength (e.g., [[Psalm 28:8]]).
* `{{H6704}}` (צֵל, *tsēl*): "shadow." Often used metaphorically for protection, as in "the shadow of His wings" or "the shadow of the Almighty" ([[Psalm 91:1]]).
The antonymous concepts include self-reliance, fear, and trusting in human power or false gods, which are often presented as futile or dangerous alternatives to seeking refuge in the Lord.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of châçâh is profound, articulating core truths about God's character and humanity's proper posture before Him.
1. **God as the Ultimate Refuge:** The consistent portrayal of Yahweh as the one in whom one takes refuge underscores His omnipotence, faithfulness, and covenantal love. He is not merely a distant deity but an active, compassionate protector who invites His people to find safety in Him. This highlights His sovereignty over all circumstances and dangers.
2. **Human Vulnerability and Dependence:** The act of taking refuge inherently acknowledges human weakness, vulnerability, and the inability to secure oneself completely. It calls for a posture of humility and absolute dependence on God, recognizing Him as the sole source of true security and deliverance.
3. **Faith and Righteousness:** To "take refuge" in God is an act of faith, demonstrating a belief in His promises and power. This trust is often linked to righteousness and is a hallmark of those who walk in obedience to Him. [[Psalm 2:12]] states, "Blessed are all who take refuge in him," connecting trust with divine blessing.
4. **Promise of Deliverance and Peace:** The outcome of taking refuge in God is consistently portrayed as deliverance from enemies, protection from harm, and the experience of peace and security, even amidst turmoil. This concept offers immense comfort and assurance to the believer.
### Summary
The Hebrew word H2620 (חָסָה, *châçâh*) signifies the active seeking of protection and the confident trust placed in a reliable source of safety. Primarily, it describes the believer's profound reliance on God as the ultimate refuge from all dangers and adversities. This act of "taking refuge" is a demonstration of faith, acknowledging human vulnerability while affirming God's unfailing power, faithfulness, and love. The theological implications are rich, establishing God as the supreme protector, emphasizing humanity's necessary dependence upon Him, and promising blessing, security, and peace to all who truly trust in His divine shelter.
TRV