### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **châçal**, represented by `{{H2628}}`, is a primitive root meaning to **eat off** or **consume**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. This singular usage provides a specific and powerful image of complete agricultural devastation as a consequence of divine judgment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H2628}}` is found in [[Deuteronomy 28:38]], within a list of curses for disobedience to God. The verse states, "Thou shalt carry much seed out into the field, and shalt gather but little in; for the locust shall **consume** it." In this context, the word describes the total destruction of a harvest, where the effort of sowing yields no return because an invading force devours it completely.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its biblical context illuminate the meaning of `{{H2628}}`:
* `{{H697}}` **ʼarbeh** (a locust): This noun identifies the agent performing the action of consuming. Derived from a word meaning "to increase," it signifies a creature known for its swarming, destructive nature. In the book of Joel, the **locust** is part of a series of devouring pests sent to judge the land [[Joel 1:4]].
* `{{H2233}}` **zeraʻ** (seed; posterity): This is the object that is consumed. The curse in Deuteronomy is specifically that the **seed** planted will not result in a harvest. The word also figuratively means posterity, as when God promises to bring Israel's **seed** from the east and west [[Isaiah 43:5]].
* `{{H3318}}` **yâtsâʼ** (to go out): This verb describes the action of bringing the seed to the field. It means "to go (causatively, bring) out." The curse contrasts the effort of carrying the seed **out** with the tragic result of having it consumed. The word is also used more broadly for God bringing His people **out** from the nations [[Ezekiel 34:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H2628}}` is concentrated in its powerful contextual role.
* **Covenantal Curses:** Its use in [[Deuteronomy 28:38]] firmly places the act of being **consumed** within the framework of covenant consequences. It is a direct and tangible result of disobedience.
* **Instrument of Judgment:** The agent of consumption, the locust `{{H697}}`, is described elsewhere as God's "great army" which He sends among His people [[Joel 2:25]]. This shows that the act of **consuming** is not merely a natural disaster but a targeted act of divine judgment.
* **Undermining Labor and Future:** By targeting the **seed** `{{H2233}}`, the act of consuming strikes at the heart of both agricultural labor and the future hope of sustenance and posterity. It represents a reversal of blessing and a threat to the nation's survival.
### Summary
In summary, while appearing only once, `{{H2628}}` **châçal** offers a potent picture of thorough destruction. It is defined entirely by its context in Deuteronomy 28, where it serves as a stark warning about the consequences of breaking covenant with God. The word vividly illustrates how the fruit of human labor can be completely undone by a force of divine judgment, linking the natural world to spiritual obedience.
TRV