### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **chôçen**, represented by `{{H2633}}`, refers to **wealth**, **riches**, **strength**, or **treasure**. It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible. Its meaning ranges from tangible material wealth and a city's resources to the abstract concept of spiritual strength and stability.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H2633}}` describes both material and spiritual realities. It can refer to the physical **strength** of a city, which includes its **labours** `{{H3018}}` and **precious things** `{{H3366}}` that are plundered by **enemies** `{{H341}}` as an act of judgment [[Jeremiah 20:5]]. In Ezekiel, corrupt **prophets** `{{H5030}}` are condemned for taking **treasure** `{{H2633}}` like a ravening **lion** `{{H738}}` [[Ezekiel 22:25]]. The book of Proverbs contrasts this worldly view by warning that such **riches** `{{H2633}}` are not **for ever** `{{H5769}}` [[Proverbs 27:24]]. It also distinguishes between the "much **treasure**" found in the **house** `{{H1004}}` of the **righteous** `{{H6662}}` and the **trouble** `{{H5916}}` found in the **revenues** `{{H8393}}` of the **wicked** `{{H7563}}` [[Proverbs 15:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{H2633}}`:
* `{{H214}}` **'ôwtsâr** (treasure): This word for **treasure** or a **depository** is often used alongside `{{H2633}}`. It can refer to a physical **storehouse** [[Malachi 3:10]] or, like **chôçen**, a spiritual reality, as when the **fear** `{{H3374}}` of the LORD is called a **treasure** [[Isaiah 33:6]].
* `{{H7563}}` **râshâʻ** (wicked): The value and nature of wealth are frequently tied to its possessor. The **revenues** of the **wicked** bring **trouble** `{{H5916}}` [[Proverbs 15:6]], and their way is contrasted with that of the **righteous** `{{H6662}}` [[Psalms 1:1]].
* `{{H5769}}` **ʻôwlâm** (for ever): This word, signifying eternity or a long duration of time, provides a critical perspective on wealth. Proverbs explicitly states that **riches** `{{H2633}}` are not **for ever** [[Proverbs 27:24]], emphasizing the temporary nature of material possessions compared to God's eternal counsel [[Psalms 33:11]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2633}}` is centered on the nature of true and lasting value.
* **The Temporality of Riches:** `{{H2633}}` is used to teach that material wealth is transient. Proverbs warns that **riches** are not **for ever** `{{H5769}}`, and a **crown** `{{H5145}}` does not endure to every **generation** `{{H1755}}` [[Proverbs 27:24]].
* **Wealth as a Moral Indicator:** The possession of `{{H2633}}` is often framed in a moral context. The **house** `{{H1004}}` of the **righteous** `{{H6662}}` holds "much **treasure**," whereas the **revenues** `{{H8393}}` of the **wicked** `{{H7563}}` result in **trouble** `{{H5916}}` [[Proverbs 15:6]]. Its illicit pursuit by corrupt leaders is a cause for judgment [[Ezekiel 22:25]].
* **Spiritual Strength as True Treasure:** The most profound use of `{{H2633}}` elevates it from a material concept to a spiritual one. In Isaiah, true **strength** `{{H2633}}` is not material but is equated with **salvation** `{{H3444}}`, **wisdom** `{{H2451}}`, and **knowledge** `{{H1847}}`. The ultimate **treasure** `{{H214}}` is identified as "the **fear** `{{H3374}}` of the LORD" [[Isaiah 33:6]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2633}}` **chôçen** provides a nuanced view of wealth and strength. While it can denote the tangible assets of a city or an individual, its biblical usage consistently points toward a deeper truth: material riches are fleeting and can be a source of **trouble** if acquired wickedly. The ultimate and enduring treasure is spiritual, found in the stability that comes from **wisdom** `{{H2451}}`, **salvation** `{{H3444}}`, and the **fear** `{{H3374}}` of God, which alone provides strength that cannot be plundered.
TRV