### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **châqar**, represented by `{{H2713}}`, is a primitive root meaning to penetrate, examine intimately, find out, or search out. It appears 27 times across 26 unique verses in the Bible. The term implies a deep and thorough investigation, not a superficial glance, whether exploring physical locations, abstract matters, or the depths of the human heart.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H2713}}` describes both divine and human investigation. The LORD is depicted as one who can **search** the heart and **try** the reins, possessing an intimate knowledge beyond human capability ([[Jeremiah 17:10]], [[Psalms 139:1]]). This same action is seen as a noble pursuit for humans; the "honour of kings is to **search out** a matter" [[Proverbs 25:2]]. The word is also used for practical investigation, such as when the Danites sent men "to **search** the land" [[Judges 18:2]] or when a community was commanded to "make **search**" to verify a report of abomination [[Deuteronomy 13:14]]. Conversely, some things are presented as being beyond this kind of examination, such as the foundations of the earth or the sheer number of vessels in Solomon's temple ([[Jeremiah 31:37]], [[1 Kings 7:47]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the scope of investigation and seeking:
* `{{H974}}` **bâchan** (to test, investigate, prove, try): Often used in parallel with `{{H2713}}`, this word emphasizes the testing or proving aspect of a search. God searches the heart and *tries* the reins, indicating an examination with the purpose of testing character ([[Jeremiah 17:10]], [[Psalms 139:23]]).
* `{{H2664}}` **châphas** (to seek, make diligent search): This term is a close synonym, often appearing with `{{H2713}}` to underscore the thoroughness of an investigation. For example, the call to "**search** (châphas) and **try** (châqar) our ways" [[Lamentations 3:40]] combines both terms for emphasis.
* `{{H1875}}` **dârash** (to seek, ask, inquire, require): While also meaning to seek, this word can carry the sense of inquiring or requesting, sometimes in the context of worship. It is used alongside `{{H2713}}` to describe a comprehensive legal investigation: "Then shalt thou **enquire** (dârash), and make **search** (châqar), and **ask** (shâʼal) diligently" [[Deuteronomy 13:14]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2713}}` is significant, highlighting key aspects of God's character and humanity's responsibilities.
* **Divine Scrutiny:** The Lord's ability to **search** the heart and mind is a fundamental attribute, affirming his omniscience. This is not a hostile action but a perfect knowing that sees the innermost being ([[Psalms 139:1]], [[Psalms 44:21]]). The psalmist even invites this scrutiny, asking God to "**Search** me" to know his heart and thoughts [[Psalms 139:23]].
* **The Pursuit of Justice and Truth:** On a human level, to **search out** a matter is a mark of honor and wisdom [[Proverbs 25:2]]. It is a required action for establishing truth and carrying out justice [[Deuteronomy 13:14]]. Job, in his role as a "father to the poor," **searched out** the legal cases he did not understand [[Job 29:16]].
* **Call to Self-Examination:** Scripture calls for believers to apply this same diligent investigation to their own lives. In a time of affliction, the call is to "**search** and **try** our ways, and turn again to the LORD" [[Lamentations 3:40]], linking self-examination directly to repentance.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2713}}` denotes a penetrating and exhaustive search for truth. It is a concept applied equally to God's perfect knowledge of humanity and to the highest duties of mankind. Whether it is God examining the heart, a king investigating a matter, or an individual reflecting on their own ways, **châqar** represents a commitment to move beyond the surface to discover what is truly there.
TRV