### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **chaph**, represented by `{{H2643}}`, is a term for **innocent** or **pure**. Derived from a root meaning 'covered from soil' in a moral sense, it has a very specific usage. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**, highlighting its rarity in scripture.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H2643}}` is in the book of Job, where Elihu quotes Job's presumed self-defense. The word is used to make an emphatic claim of blamelessness: "I am clean without transgression, I am **innocent**; neither is there iniquity in me" [[Job 33:9]]. In this context, it contributes to a declaration of absolute moral spotlessness, a key theme in the debate surrounding Job's suffering.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its only context in scripture help to define its meaning by contrast:
* `{{H2134}}` **zak** (clean, pure): This word is used in parallel with `{{H2643}}` to reinforce the idea of purity. It appears in the same declaration in Job, "I am **clean**... without transgression" [[Job 33:9]].
* `{{H6588}}` **peshaʻ** (transgression): This term describes a revolt or rebellion, and its absence is a key part of the claim to innocence. It is used in direct opposition to purity: "I am clean without **transgression**" [[Job 33:9]].
* `{{H5771}}` **ʻâvôn** (iniquity): Representing moral evil or fault, this word is the final element denied in the assertion of innocence in Job, "...neither is there **iniquity** in me" [[Job 33:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2643}}` is derived from its unique and specific context.
* **Claim of Righteousness:** The use of `{{H2643}}` is part of a human's declaration of being completely without fault, a state of perfect innocence before God [[Job 33:9]].
* **Contrast with Sin:** This claim of being **innocent** stands in stark contrast to the broader scriptural context of related terms like **transgression** `{{H6588}}` and **iniquity** `{{H5771}}`, which are acknowledged as realities for humanity for which God provides pardon and forgiveness ([[Micah 7:18]], [[Isaiah 53:5]]).
* **Moral Purity:** The word itself points to an ideal state of moral spotlessness. Its sole biblical use is found within a defense against accusations of wrongdoing, linking innocence to the absence of both transgression and iniquity.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2643}}` is a highly specific term for **innocent**. Its single appearance in scripture is powerful, used within a declaration of absolute freedom from sin, transgression, and iniquity. While rare, it provides a crucial term in the dialogue about human righteousness and moral purity found in the book of Job.
TRV