### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **châçôn**, represented by `{{H2634}}`, means **powerful** or **strong**. Derived from the root word חָסַן, it is a rare term, appearing only **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Its limited use highlights a specific aspect of strength, particularly in the context of divine judgment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two appearances of `{{H2634}}` illustrate the frailty of created strength when confronted by God's power. In [[Amos 2:9]], God recounts destroying the Amorite, who was described as **strong** as the oaks, emphasizing that even the most formidable natural power is subject to His will. Similarly, [[Isaiah 1:31]] uses the term in a prophecy of judgment, stating that "the **strong** shall be as tow," a flammable material, indicating that human might is ultimately combustible and perishable before God.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide deeper context to the meaning of `{{H2634}}`:
* `{{H1363}}` **gôbahh** (excellency, haughty, height, high, loftiness, pride): This word is used in parallel with `{{H2634}}` in [[Amos 2:9]] to describe the Amorite's formidable stature, whose **height** was like that of the cedars. It links physical size with the concept of strength.
* `{{H437}}` **ʼallôwn** (oak): The strength of the Amorite is directly compared to that of **oaks** in [[Amos 2:9]]. The oak tree serves as a natural symbol of the powerful and robust nature that `{{H2634}}` describes.
* `{{H8045}}` **shâmad** (to desolate; destory): This word frames the context for `{{H2634}}` in [[Amos 2:9]], as God declares He **destroyed** the strong Amorite. It establishes that the ultimate end of this earthly strength is destruction by a higher power.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2634}}` is found in its consistent theme of divine sovereignty over created power.
* **Symbol of Earthly Might:** The word is used to represent the peak of physical, earthly power, whether it is the mighty Amorite compared to an oak [[Amos 2:9]] or the generally "strong" individual [[Isaiah 1:31]].
* **Vulnerability of Strength:** In both instances, this strength is shown to be completely vulnerable. It can be utterly destroyed by God [[Amos 2:9]] or consumed as easily as tow in a fire [[Isaiah 1:31]].
* **Subject of Judgment:** The context for `{{H2634}}` is consistently one of judgment. The word is not used to praise strength, but to demonstrate that no amount of power can stand against God's decree.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2634}}` **châçôn** serves as a specific and potent descriptor for a strength that appears impressive by worldly standards but is ultimately finite and fragile. Though used only twice, its appearances in Amos and Isaiah deliver a clear and consistent message: all earthly power, no matter how **strong**, is subject to the absolute and consuming authority of God.
TRV