### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **châphar**, represented by `{{H2658}}`, is a primitive root that means to pry into, delve, or explore. It is used to describe actions such as digging, pawing, searching out, or seeking. It appears **22 times** across **21 unique verses** in the Bible, encompassing a range of both literal and figurative activities.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H2658}}` is most frequently associated with the act of digging for water. Isaac's servants are repeatedly described as having **digged** `{{H2658}}` wells `{{H875}}` as they moved through the land, an act essential for life and sustenance [[Genesis 26:19]]. The word is also used in a military or intelligence context, where spies are sent to **search out** `{{H2658}}` the country of Jericho ([[Joshua 2:2]], [[Joshua 2:3]]). In a more negative sense, `{{H2658}}` describes the malicious act of digging a pit `{{H953}}` as a trap for another, with the digger often falling into their own creation [[Psalms 7:15]]. Figuratively, it conveys intense desire, as in Job's longing for death, for which he would **dig** `{{H2658}}` more than for hidden treasures [[Job 3:21]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to frame the meaning of `{{H2658}}` in its various contexts:
* `{{H875}}` **bᵉʼêr** (a pit; especially a well): This word is the most common object of the action of digging. The repeated effort to **dig** `{{H2658}}` a **well** `{{H875}}` underscores the critical importance of water and provision in the patriarch's journey [[Genesis 21:30]].
* `{{H7845}}` **shachath** (a pit (especially as a trap); figuratively, destruction): This term often appears as the malicious result of digging. Enemies are described as having **digged** `{{H2658}}` a **pit** `{{H7845}}` for the psalmist's soul `{{H5315}}`, highlighting the use of this action for destructive purposes [[Psalms 35:7]].
* `{{H776}}` **ʼerets** (the earth (at large, or partitively a land)): This word provides the setting for the action. Whether digging wells in the **land** `{{H776}}` [[Genesis 26:22]] or searching out a **country** `{{H776}}` [[Deuteronomy 1:22]], the action of `{{H2658}}` is grounded in the physical world.
* `{{H4301}}` **maṭmôwn** (a secret storehouse; hence, a secreted valuable): This word is used to create a powerful metaphor for intense seeking. Job's desire for death is so strong that he would **dig** `{{H2658}}` for it more eagerly than for **hid treasures** `{{H4301}}` [[Job 3:21]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2658}}` is found in the intent and outcome of the action.
* **Perseverance and Provision:** The repeated digging of wells by Isaac, despite contention, culminates in a place he names Rehoboth, where the LORD "hath made room for us" [[Genesis 26:22]]. This connects the physical act of digging to faith, perseverance, and receiving God's blessing.
* **Moral Consequence:** The principle that one who **diggeth** `{{H2658}}` a pit will fall into it is a recurring theme ([[Ecclesiastes 10:8]], [[Psalms 7:15]]). This illustrates a fundamental biblical concept of divine justice, where evil schemes become self-destructive.
* **Exploration and Seeking:** The act of searching out a land [[Deuteronomy 1:22]] or digging for something of great value points to the human drive to explore and seek. This physical action serves as a picture of the deeper spiritual quest for things of ultimate worth or for understanding God's will.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2658}}` is a dynamic verb that moves beyond the simple act of digging earth. It illustrates a spectrum of human motivation and effort. It can represent a life-sustaining act of faith, a malicious plot destined to fail, an investigative search for knowledge, or a desperate yearning for something hidden. Through this single word, Scripture shows how the same physical effort can lead to either divine provision or self-inflicted ruin, depending on the heart's intent.
TRV