### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **châphash**, represented by `{{H2666}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to spread loose; figuratively, to manumit; be free**. It is a very specific term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its singular use defines the state of a person who is no longer in bondage.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H2666}}` is in [[Leviticus 19:20]], where it clarifies a point of law. The verse discusses a scenario involving a "bondmaid" `{{H8198}}` who is betrothed to a husband but has not been "redeemed" `{{H6299}}` nor had "freedom given her" `{{H2668}}`. The consequence for a man who lies with her is scourging, not death. The reason for this specific judgment is stated plainly: "because she was not **free**" [[Leviticus 19:20]]. This usage establishes a clear legal distinction between a free person and a slave, directly impacting culpability under the law.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the concept of being **free**:
* `{{H2668}}` **chuphshâh** (freedom): Derived from the same root, this is the noun form of liberty. It is used in the same verse to describe the "freedom" that was not given to the bondmaid [[Leviticus 19:20]].
* `{{H8198}}` **shiphchâh** (bondmaid): This term denotes a female slave and represents the status opposite to being free. The law in [[Leviticus 19:20]] is specific to a woman in this state of servitude [[Leviticus 19:20]]. This role is elsewhere described as a household servant, such as the "maiden" who looks to the hand of her mistress [[Psalms 123:2]].
* `{{H6299}}` **pâdâh** (redeem): This word describes the act of ransoming or releasing someone from bondage. In the key verse, the bondmaid was "not at all redeemed" [[Leviticus 19:20]], which was one of the prerequisites for her becoming free. God is often described as the one who redeems His people from bondage [[Deuteronomy 7:8]].
### Theological Significance
The legal weight of `{{H2666}}` is concentrated in its single, precise application.
* **Defining Legal Status:** The word's only function in scripture is to draw a line between freedom and slavery, which has direct consequences under the Mosaic Law. One's status as **free** or not determines the legal judgment for a specific offense [[Leviticus 19:20]].
* **Freedom as an Acquired Condition:** The context shows that for a "bondmaid" `{{H8198}}`, the state of being **free** is not inherent. It must be obtained through an external action, such as being "redeemed" `{{H6299}}` or having freedom explicitly "given" `{{H5414}}` to her.
* **The Path to Freedom:** [[Leviticus 19:20]] links the state of being **free** directly to the act of redemption. The failure to be "redeemed" is presented as a parallel reason for her not being **free**, highlighting redemption as a primary mechanism for release from servitude.
### Summary
In summary, **châphash** `{{H2666}}` offers a concise and powerful definition of being **free** from servitude. Though it appears only once, its use in [[Leviticus 19:20]] is foundational to a specific point of law, establishing that a person's legal standing as free or enslaved directly affects matters of justice. The term illustrates that, within this legal framework, freedom was an acquired status, intrinsically linked to acts of redemption or manumission.
TRV