from חָסַן; properly, firm, i.e. (by implication) mighty; strong.
Transliteration:chăçîyn
Pronunciation:khas-een'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word חֲסִין (chăçîyn, `{{H2626}}`) is an adjective derived from the verbal root חָסַן (ḥāsan, `{{H2630}}`), which means "to be strong," "to be mighty," or "to be firm." Consequently, חֲסִין primarily conveys the sense of being "firm," "strong," or "mighty." It describes an inherent quality of robustness, stability, or overwhelming power. The semantic range extends from physical strength and durability to the irresistible force of an entity or event. It implies a quality that is unshakeable, secure, and capable of exerting significant influence or power.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term חֲסִין (chăçîyn, `{{H2626}}`) appears infrequently in the Hebrew Bible, but its occurrences are highly significant, consistently pointing to an overwhelming and unshakeable power:
* **Divine Power:** In [[Psalm 89:13]], the word is used to describe God's arm: "You have a mighty arm; strong is Your hand, and high is Your right hand." Here, חֲסִין (translated as "mighty" or "strong") emphasizes the absolute and effective power of God. The context is a hymn praising God's faithfulness and omnipotence, particularly His ability to establish and maintain His covenant and rule over creation. God's arm is not merely strong, but inherently firm and capable of executing His will without fail.
* **Instrument of Judgment:** In [[Isaiah 28:2]], the word appears twice in quick succession within a prophecy of judgment against Ephraim: "Behold, the Lord has one who is strong and mighty (חָזָק וְחָסִין); like a storm of hail, a destroying tempest, like a flood of mighty (חֲסִין) waters overflowing, He will cast them down to the earth with His hand."
* Firstly, חֲסִין describes the "strong and mighty one" (paired with חָזָק, `{{H2389}}`), referring to an invading power, likely the Assyrian empire, which God will use as an instrument of His judgment. This highlights the irresistible and destructive force of this human agent.
* Secondly, חֲסִין describes the "mighty waters" of a devastating flood, emphasizing the overwhelming and inescapable nature of the impending destruction. In both instances in [[Isaiah 28:2]], חֲסִין underscores the overwhelming, unyielding, and destructive power of the forces unleashed by God's decree.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of חֲסִין (chăçîyn, `{{H2626}}`) is enriched by its relationship to several other Hebrew terms denoting strength and power:
* **חָסַן (ḥāsan, `{{H2630}}`):** The verbal root from which חֲסִין is derived. It means "to be strong, to be firm, to be mighty." This direct etymological link confirms the core meaning of robustness and power.
* **חֹסֶן (ḥōsen, `{{H2632}}`):** A noun from the same root, meaning "strength," "treasure," or "store." It can refer to inherent strength or to stored resources, implying a secure or firm foundation of wealth or power (e.g., [[Jeremiah 20:5]]).
* **גְּבוּרָה (gĕbûrâ, `{{H1369}}`):** A frequently used noun meaning "strength," "might," or "power," often referring to divine power or the might of warriors. In [[Psalm 89:13]], חֲסִין is used in conjunction with בִּגְבוּרָה ("with strength"), underscoring the intensity of God's power.
* **חָזָק (ḥāzāq, `{{H2389}}`):** An adjective meaning "strong," "firm," or "hard." It often describes physical strength, courage, or the firmness of an object. Its pairing with חֲסִין in [[Isaiah 28:2]] creates a hendiadys, emphasizing an overwhelming and resolute force.
* **עֹז (‘ōz, `{{H5797}}`):** Another common term for "strength," "might," or "power," frequently used in contexts of divine power, military strength, or a source of security.
### Theological Significance
The theological implications of חֲסִין (chăçîyn, `{{H2626}}`) are profound, particularly in its application to God and His actions:
* **Divine Omnipotence and Sovereignty:** When applied to God, as in [[Psalm 89:13]], חֲסִין highlights the absolute, unchallengeable, and unwavering nature of divine power. God's arm is not merely strong, but "mighty" or "firm," signifying His inherent capacity to accomplish all His purposes. This attribute provides a bedrock for trust in His faithfulness to covenant promises and His ability to execute justice and salvation. It underscores God's complete control over all creation and history.
* **Irresistible Judgment:** In contexts where חֲסִין describes human or natural forces (e.g., [[Isaiah 28:2]]), it reveals these as instruments of God's sovereign will. The "strong and mighty one" and the "mighty waters" are not independent powers but serve as agents of divine judgment. This emphasizes that even the most formidable earthly powers are ultimately under God's control and cannot resist His decrees. It communicates the certainty and inevitability of God's judgment when His people stray from His covenant.
* **Unshakeable Purpose:** The core meaning of "firmness" inherent in חֲסִין can also subtly convey the unshakeable nature of God's plans and decrees. What God purposes, He brings to pass with an unyielding strength, whether it be the establishment of His kingdom or the execution of His righteous judgment.
### Summary
The Hebrew word חֲסִין (chăçîyn, `{{H2626}}`) denotes a quality of being "firm," "strong," or "mighty," deriving from the root חָסַן (`{{H2630}}`). Though rare in its biblical occurrences, its usage is impactful. When applied to God, as in [[Psalm 89:13]], it underscores the absolute, unchallengeable, and effective nature of His divine power, providing a foundation for trust in His omnipotence and covenant faithfulness. In contexts of judgment, such as [[Isaiah 28:2]], חֲסִין describes the overwhelming and irresistible force of the agents God employs—whether a conquering army or a destructive storm—to execute His sovereign will. Across its uses, חֲסִין consistently highlights an unyielding, robust, and potent strength, confirming the certainty and efficacy of God's actions in history and His ultimate control over all powers.
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