a primitive root; to spread loose; figuratively, to manumit; be free.
Transliteration:châphash
Pronunciation:khaw-fash'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew root H2666 (חָפַשׁ, *châphash*) carries a multifaceted semantic range, originating from the primitive idea of "to spread loose" or "to loosen." This foundational meaning extends figuratively in two primary directions. Firstly, it denotes the act of "manumitting" or "setting free," reflecting the physical loosening of bonds or constraints. While this sense of liberation is present in its etymological root, its direct application to human freedom from bondage is less frequent in the Masoretic Text than its second, more prevalent meaning.
The second, and arguably more dominant, semantic cluster for *châphash* is "to search out," "to explore," "to examine diligently," or "to uncover." This meaning derives from the idea of "loosening" or "uncovering" something hidden, whether it be facts, intentions, or physical objects. It implies a thorough and often laborious investigation, akin to rummaging through something to find a specific item or to reveal what is concealed. This aspect of the word highlights an active, intentional pursuit of knowledge or understanding.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The usage of H2666 across the Hebrew Bible predominantly reflects the meaning of "to search" or "to investigate," often with a connotation of diligence and thoroughness.
In [[Deuteronomy 1:22]], the people request to send men ahead "to search out the land," implying an exploratory mission to uncover its characteristics and the strength of its inhabitants. Similarly, [[Job 29:16]] states, "I searched out the cause of him whom I did not know," indicating a diligent inquiry into the affairs of strangers to render justice.
The investigative nuance is also evident in [[Jeremiah 50:26]], where the command is given to "search her [Babylon], open her storehouses," suggesting a thorough examination for plunder. [[Obadiah 1:6]] uses *châphash* to describe the complete discovery and exposure of Esau's hidden treasures: "How Esau's hidden treasures are searched out!" This highlights the uncovering of what was previously concealed.
Perhaps one of the most profound uses of *châphash* occurs in the context of divine and human introspection. [[Psalm 139:23]] famously declares, "Search me, O God, and know my heart," a plea for divine scrutiny that reveals the deepest intentions and hidden aspects of the self. This verse underscores God's omniscience and His ability to penetrate the innermost being. In [[Lamentations 3:40]], the prophet calls for self-examination: "Let us search and try our ways, and turn again to the Lord." Here, *châphash* denotes a rigorous, introspective evaluation of one's conduct and spiritual state.
The root can also carry a sense of difficulty or intensity in searching. [[Psalm 64:6]] speaks of the wicked who "search out iniquities; they accomplish a diligent search," depicting their persistent efforts in devising evil. [[Psalm 77:6]] uses it in a contemplative sense: "I meditate with my heart, and my spirit makes diligent search," indicating a deep, internal quest for understanding or solace.
While the "manumit/free" aspect is part of its base definition, it is less directly attested in the verbal forms of *châphash* within the extant Hebrew text, where the "search/explore" meaning predominates.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of H2666 intersects with several other Hebrew terms that convey similar or complementary ideas:
* **Words related to searching/inquiry:**
* `{{H1875}}` (דָּרַשׁ, *darash*): "to seek," "to inquire," often with a religious or legal connotation, emphasizing seeking God or His will. While *châphash* suggests uncovering, *darash* often implies a more direct pursuit or asking.
* `{{H2713}}` (חָקַר, *chaqar*): "to search out," "to investigate thoroughly," "to scrutinize." This word often implies a deep, penetrating investigation, similar to *châphash*, sometimes with a focus on discovering secrets or hidden truths. `{{H2714}}` (*cheqer*) is its nominal form, meaning "searching" or "investigation."
* `{{H977}}` (בָּחַן, *bachan*): "to test," "to examine," "to prove," often in the context of discerning quality or truth through trial.
* `{{H2680}}` (חָקָה, *chaqa*): "to search," "to explore," sometimes used in parallel with *châphash*.
* **Words related to freedom/release:**
* `{{H2627}}` (חָפְשִׁי, *chophshiy*): An adjective derived from a similar root, meaning "free," "exempt," "at liberty." This term more directly conveys the concept of freedom from obligation or bondage.
* `{{H3318}}` (יָצָא, *yatsa*): "to go out," "to come forth," which can imply release or liberation from confinement.
The conceptual connections include the pursuit of truth, the unearthing of hidden things (whether good or evil), the act of self-reflection, and the divine attribute of omniscience. The act of "searching out" is often a prerequisite for knowledge, judgment, or revelation.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of H2666 primarily revolves around the concept of divine knowledge and human responsibility.
Firstly, the frequent use of *châphash* in relation to God's actions underscores His omniscient nature. God is portrayed as the ultimate "searcher," capable of penetrating the deepest recesses of the human heart and mind ([[Psalm 139:23]]). This divine scrutiny is not merely for judgment but also for understanding and guiding His creation. It implies that nothing is hidden from God, and true repentance begins with acknowledging this divine insight.
Secondly, the call for humanity to "search" ([[Lamentations 3:40]]) highlights the imperative for self-examination and introspection. This is a crucial aspect of spiritual growth and repentance. Believers are called to diligently assess their ways, uncover their sins, and align themselves with God's will. This active searching contrasts with complacency and superficiality.
Thirdly, the act of "searching out" can also relate to the pursuit of wisdom and understanding of God's ways. While not explicitly used in the sense of "searching for God's truth" in every instance, the underlying principle of diligent inquiry applies to the broader quest for divine revelation. The uncovering of hidden things, whether for justice or understanding, reflects a God who brings light to darkness.
While the "manumit/free" aspect is less prominent in the biblical usage of the verb *châphash*, the underlying concept of "loosening" can be seen as a metaphor for divine liberation from spiritual bondage, even if other terms more directly express this. The very act of God "searching" the heart can lead to a loosening of sin's grip through conviction and repentance.
### Summary
The Hebrew word H2666 (חָפַשׁ, *châphash*) is a rich primitive root whose core meaning of "to spread loose" branches into two significant semantic fields: "to manumit" or "set free," and more predominantly, "to search out," "to explore," or "to examine diligently." Biblical occurrences primarily emphasize the latter, portraying a thorough and often laborious investigation. This can be seen in human endeavors to "search out" a land ([[Deuteronomy 1:22]]) or a matter ([[Job 29:16]]). The theological weight of *châphash* is most profoundly expressed in the context of divine omniscience, where God is depicted as the ultimate "searcher" of the human heart ([[Psalm 139:23]]), and in the human responsibility for diligent self-examination and repentance ([[Lamentations 3:40]]). The word thus encapsulates both God's penetrating knowledge and humanity's call to introspective truth-seeking, revealing the profound depths of the spiritual journey.
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