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.
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.
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.
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.
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