### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **chôçer**, represented by `{{H2640}}`, means **poverty** or to be **in want of** something. It is derived from the word חָסֵר and appears only **3 times** in **3 unique verses** in the Bible. Its rarity is contrasted by its severe meaning, consistently signifying a state of profound lack and destitution.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H2640}}` is used exclusively to describe the dire consequences of judgment or disobedience. In Deuteronomy, it is a central element of the curses for breaking the covenant, where Israel is warned they will serve their enemies "in hunger, and in thirst, and in nakedness, and in **want** of all things" [[Deuteronomy 28:48]]. This state of total lack is so extreme that it leads to horrific acts during a siege, done "for **want** of all things secretly" [[Deuteronomy 28:57]]. The prophet Amos also uses the term to describe a divinely-sent famine, where God gives the people a "**want** of bread" as a judgment meant to lead them to repentance [[Amos 4:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the specific types of lack encapsulated by `{{H2640}}`:
* `{{H7458}}` **râʻâb** (hunger): This term is explicitly paired with `{{H2640}}` to describe the lack of food as part of a curse [[Deuteronomy 28:48]]. It can also signify a spiritual **famine** for hearing the words of the LORD [[Amos 8:11]].
* `{{H6772}}` **tsâmâʼ** (thirst): Alongside hunger and nakedness, **thirst** defines the state of utter destitution in [[Deuteronomy 28:48]]. It represents the lack of water, a fundamental necessity for life.
* `{{H5903}}` **ʻêyrôm** (nakedness): This word describes the lack of clothing and protection, appearing with hunger and thirst as part of the total "want" in [[Deuteronomy 28:48]]. It signifies vulnerability and shame.
* `{{H3899}}` **lechem** (bread): This word for food or **bread** is the specific object of "want" in the judgment described in [[Amos 4:6]]. It symbolizes the most basic provision that is withheld.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2640}}` is significant, highlighting God's sovereignty and the consequences of sin.
* **Covenant Curse:** The primary context for `{{H2640}}` is as a curse for disobedience. The "want of all things" is a promised outcome for turning away from God's commands, culminating in total servitude and eventual destruction [[Deuteronomy 28:48]].
* **Divine Judgment:** The "want of bread" is not a random occurrence but is actively "given" by God as a corrective measure to provoke His people to return to Him [[Amos 4:6]]. This demonstrates that God can use hardship and lack to accomplish His purposes.
* **Ultimate Destruction:** The state of want is presented as a precursor to utter ruin. The curse of being in "want of all things" is directly linked to the promise that an enemy will place a yoke of iron on Israel's neck until they are destroyed{H8045} [[Deuteronomy 28:48]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2640}}` is a potent term that, while used sparingly, conveys a message of extreme privation. It is far more than simple poverty; it is a state of complete lack—of food, water, clothing, and all things necessary for life. Biblically, **chôçer** functions as a stark illustration of the consequences of covenant unfaithfulness and a powerful reminder of absolute dependence on God for every provision.
TRV