### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **cheçrôwn**, represented by `{{H2642}}`, defines a state of **deficiency** or being **wanting**. It appears just **1 time** in the entire Bible, in **1 unique verse**, yet it carries significant weight in its context. The term signifies an inherent lack or an unfillable void that is a fundamental aspect of the world.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single, powerful use of `{{H2642}}` is found in the philosophical reflections of Ecclesiastes. The Preacher observes a fixed reality where some things are simply broken or missing. It is stated that "that which is **wanting** cannot be numbered" [[Ecclesiastes 1:15]]. In this verse, the word is paired with the concept of something being "crooked," together illustrating a world with deep-seated imperfections that are beyond human capacity to either correct or even fully quantify.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several words used in its immediate context help define the limits of this deficiency:
* `{{H5791}}` **ʻâvath** (to make crooked): This word describes that which is twisted or perverted. It is used to express a state that cannot be undone by human effort, as seen when the Preacher asks who can make something straight which God has made **crooked** [[Ecclesiastes 7:13]].
* `{{H8626}}` **tâqan** (to make straight): As the direct opposite of `ʻâvath`, this term means to set in order or equalize. Its use highlights the impossible task of fixing the world's inherent crookedness [[Ecclesiastes 1:15]].
* `{{H3201}}` **yâkôl** (to be able): This root word for ability or power is used negatively in this context, emphasizing human inability. The deficiency of `{{H2642}}` is something that humanity **cannot** resolve, just as evil-doers are not **able** to perform their mischievous devices [[Psalms 21:11]].
* `{{H4487}}` **mânâh** (to number): This word for counting or enumerating is used to show the immeasurable nature of the world's deficiency. The promise to Abraham illustrates this concept, suggesting his descendants would be as uncountable as the dust of the earth, which no man **can number** [[Genesis 13:16]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2642}}` is concentrated in its single appearance, offering a stark observation on the human condition.
* **Irremediable Imperfection:** The word points to a fundamental brokenness in the fallen world. This "wanting" state is presented not as a temporary problem to be solved, but as a permanent feature that cannot be fixed by human hands [[Ecclesiastes 1:15]].
* **Human Limitation:** `cheçrôwn` serves as a profound statement on the limits of human power and knowledge. The fact that the deficiency "cannot be numbered" implies that its scope is beyond human comprehension or management [[Ecclesiastes 1:15]].
* **The Nature of Futility:** Within the book of Ecclesiastes, this unquantifiable lack contributes directly to the theme of vanity. It shows that striving to perfect or completely understand the world is a futile endeavor, as there are deficiencies that lie outside our control.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2642}}` is a deeply significant, albeit rare, biblical term. Its singular use in scripture encapsulates a core message of Ecclesiastes: the world contains fundamental deficiencies and crookedness that human effort can neither fix nor fully measure. This single word, **cheçrôwn**, provides a powerful lens through which to view the inherent limitations of the human experience under the sun.
TRV