from חָפַשׂ; something covert, i.e. a trick; search.
Transliteration:chêphes
Pronunciation:khay'-fes
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew noun H2665 (חֵפֶשׂ, *chêphes*) is derived directly from the verbal root H2664 (חָפַשׂ, *châphas*), which signifies "to search, examine, explore, spy out, or search for." As a noun, H2665 encapsulates the essence of this root, denoting "something covert," "a trick," or "a search." Its semantic range thus encompasses both the act of diligent investigation and the nature of that which is sought or discovered, particularly if it is hidden, concealed, or possesses an element of secrecy or cunning. The nuance of "trick" suggests that what is covert may also be deceptive or involve a hidden agenda. Essentially, H2665 points to the process of uncovering or the state of being hidden, often with implications of discovery, whether for good or ill.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
It is important to note that the noun H2665 (חֵפֶשׂ) itself does not appear as a distinct lemma in the Masoretic Text of the Hebrew Bible. Its meaning and conceptual understanding are entirely derived from its verbal root, H2664 (חָפַשׂ), which is attested numerous times. Therefore, our analysis must focus on the contexts in which the root verb H2664 is employed, as these passages illuminate the semantic field that H2665 would inhabit if it were used.
The verb H2664 often describes a thorough and deliberate search, frequently for something hidden or lost, or for information.
* In [[Genesis 31:35]], Laban meticulously H2664 Jacob's tent for his stolen household gods, demonstrating a physical, exhaustive search for concealed items.
* The concept extends to searching for individuals, as seen in [[1 Samuel 23:23]], where Saul vows to H2664 David out from all the hiding places in Judah, highlighting a persistent, even relentless, pursuit of someone in concealment.
* Perhaps most profoundly, H2664 is used in a metaphorical sense for self-examination and divine scrutiny. In [[Lamentations 3:40]], the prophet urges, "Let us H2664 our ways and test them, and let us return to the Lord." This signifies an internal, moral investigation.
* Similarly, [[Zephaniah 1:12]] portrays God's meticulous judgment: "At that time I will H2664 Jerusalem with lamps and punish the men who are complacent." This vivid imagery underscores a divine, penetrating search that uncovers all hidden sin and complacency, leaving nothing concealed.
Thus, while H2665 is not directly found, its conceptual meaning of "something covert" or "a search" is powerfully present in the actions described by its root verb, whether it pertains to human efforts to find or conceal, or divine omniscience that uncovers all.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the verbal root from which H2665 is derived:
* H2664 (חָפַשׂ, *châphas*): "to search, examine, explore, spy out, search for, search through." This verb is the foundation for understanding H2665, emphasizing the act of diligent investigation.
Other Hebrew words that convey similar or overlapping concepts of searching, testing, or uncovering include:
* H2713 (חָקַר, *chaqar*): "to search, examine, investigate, explore." Often implies a deep, thorough, and intellectual inquiry, frequently used in contexts of God's searching of hearts and minds (e.g., [[Jeremiah 17:10]]).
* H974 (בָּחַן, *bachan*): "to examine, try, prove, test." This word often relates to testing the genuineness or quality of something, like metals or character.
* H1875 (דָּרַשׁ, *darash*): "to seek, inquire, search out, investigate." This term frequently carries a connotation of seeking knowledge, counsel, or the will of God.
Concepts related to H2665 include:
* **Hiddenness/Concealment**: The state of being secret or obscure.
* **Revelation/Discovery**: The act of making known or finding something previously hidden.
* **Deception/Cunning**: The negative aspect of "covert" actions, involving trickery or hidden motives.
* **Investigation/Discernment**: The process of careful inquiry and understanding.
### Theological Significance
Although H2665 does not appear as a noun in the biblical text, the theological implications of its root H2664 are profound, particularly concerning God's nature and humanity's relationship with Him.
The concept of "search" and "uncovering" is central to divine omniscience and justice. God is portrayed as the ultimate "Searcher" who H2664 (examines) hearts and hidden motives ([[Jeremiah 17:10]] uses H2713, but the concept is synonymous). Nothing is truly covert or hidden from His sight. This divine attribute means that human attempts at deception, hidden sins, or secret schemes will ultimately be H2664 out and exposed by God. This brings both comfort to the righteous (that justice will prevail) and conviction to the wicked (that their hidden deeds will not escape judgment).
Furthermore, the imperative for humanity to H2664 (examine) their own ways ([[Lamentations 3:40]]) highlights the theological theme of self-reflection, repentance, and accountability. This internal search is a prerequisite for genuine return to God. It signifies a humble willingness to uncover one's own hidden faults and motivations before the divine gaze.
The "covert" or "trick" aspect inherent in the definition of H2665 points to the reality of human sin and fallenness, where deceit and hidden agendas are common. Yet, the biblical narrative consistently affirms that God's perfect knowledge penetrates all such human attempts at concealment, leading either to a call for repentance or to inevitable judgment.
### Summary
The Hebrew noun H2665 (חֵפֶשׂ, *chêphes*), though not directly attested in the Masoretic Text, derives its meaning from the verbal root H2664 (חָפַשׂ, *châphas*), signifying "to search, examine, or explore." Conceptually, it represents "something covert," "a trick," or the act of "searching." Its semantic range encompasses both the process of diligent investigation and the nature of hidden or concealed things, often with implications of discovery or deception. While H2665 itself is absent from the biblical canon, its underlying concepts are powerfully conveyed through the usage of its root verb. Theologically, this root emphasizes God's omniscient ability to H2664 all hidden things and motives, ensuring divine justice and revealing the futility of human attempts at concealment. It also underscores the human responsibility for self-examination, urging individuals to H2664 their own ways in repentance before the all-seeing God. The tension between human hiddenness and divine uncovering remains a central theme, highlighting God's perfect knowledge and the ultimate revelation of all truth.
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