or (fully) חוֹר; from חָרַר; (compare חֹרִי); properly, white or pure (from the cleansing or shining power of fire; hence (figuratively) noble (in rank); noble.
Transliteration:chôr
Pronunciation:khore
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term חֹר (H2715), transliterated as *chôr*, derives from the root חָרַר (H2787), which signifies "to be hot," "to scorch," or "to dry up." From this root, the primary semantic range of חֹר unfolds in two significant directions. Firstly, it conveys the idea of "white" or "pure," stemming from the cleansing and refining power of fire, which purifies and makes things brilliant or white. This sense is evident in its usage referring to fine, white fabrics. Secondly, and more frequently in the biblical text, חֹר extends figuratively to denote "noble" or "free." This metaphorical leap suggests that nobility is associated with a kind of purity, distinction, or elevated status, perhaps implying freedom from servitude or a position of untainted honor. The alternate spelling חוֹר carries the same meaning. The Strong's entry also notes a comparison with חֹרִי (H2753), which refers to the Horites, a people group, though the precise semantic link to "noble" or "white" for this comparison is debated among scholars, possibly pointing to a shared root related to "free" or "cave-dweller."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word חֹר (H2715) appears in the Old Testament with both its literal and figurative meanings.
1. **"White" or "Fine Linen":**
In [[Isaiah 19:9]], the term חוֹרִים (the plural of חוֹר, H2715) is used to describe "weavers of fine linen" (חֹרִי). This usage directly reflects the primary sense of "white" or "pure," referring to high-quality, white fabric, a significant product of ancient Egypt. The context here speaks of the impending judgment upon Egypt, which would affect even its renowned industries.
2. **"Noble" or "Free Men":**
This is the more prevalent usage of חֹר (H2715). It consistently refers to individuals of high social standing, often in positions of influence or authority within Israelite society, particularly during the post-exilic period.
* In [[1 Kings 21:8]], Jezebel writes letters in Ahab's name, sending them to "the elders and the nobles" (הַחֹרִים וְהַזְּקֵנִים) of Naboth's city, instructing them to orchestrate Naboth's demise. Here, the חֹרִים are clearly a distinct class of prominent citizens with local power.
* In the book of Nehemiah, חֹרִים frequently appear alongside "officials" (סְגָנִים - `{{H5461}}`) or "elders" (זְקֵנִים - `{{H2205}}`). Examples include [[Nehemiah 2:16]], [[Nehemiah 4:14]], [[Nehemiah 5:7]], [[Nehemiah 5:17]], [[Nehemiah 6:17]], [[Nehemiah 7:5]], and [[Nehemiah 13:17]]. These passages consistently portray the חֹרִים as the leading citizens, often involved in the reconstruction efforts, administrative decisions, or, at times, in the oppression of the poor. Nehemiah frequently addresses them directly, appealing to their responsibility and authority.
* [[Ecclesiastes 10:17]] contrasts a land whose king is of "noble birth" (בֶן־חֹרִים) with a land whose princes feast in the morning. Here, "son of nobles" signifies a ruler with appropriate lineage and character, implying wisdom and discipline, in contrast to those who indulge in excess.
Across these contexts, חֹר (H2715) designates a socio-political elite, distinguished by their status, influence, and often, their wealth. Their actions, whether positive (like supporting Nehemiah's work) or negative (like oppressing the poor or conspiring against Naboth), significantly impact the community.
### Related Words & Concepts
The study of חֹר (H2715) is enriched by examining its lexical connections:
* **Root Word:** The primary root is חָרַר (H2787), "to be hot," "to scorch," "to dry up." This root's connection to fire and its purifying effect undergirds the "white" and "pure" semantic range of חֹר.
* **Alternate Form:** חוֹר (H2356), which is essentially the same word, is sometimes used interchangeably, particularly in the sense of "white" or "fine linen."
* **Related Noun:** חֹרִי (H2753), referring to the Horites, is noted in the Strong's definition. While its primary meaning is a people group, some etymological theories suggest a connection to "free" or "noble," or perhaps to "cave-dwellers" (from חֹר, "hole"). This connection is debated but highlights the potential for subtle semantic overlaps from shared roots.
* **Synonyms for "Noble":**
* נָדִיב (nadiv - `{{H5081}}`): This term often emphasizes generosity, willingness, and a noble spirit, rather than just social rank.
* שַׂר (sar - `{{H8269}}`): A more general term for "prince," "chief," or "ruler," indicating a position of authority.
* נְגִיד (nagid - `{{H5057}}`): Leader, prince, often implying a divinely appointed leader.
* **Synonyms for "White/Pure":**
* לָבָן (lavan - `{{H3835}}`): The most common word for "white."
* טָהוֹר (tahor - `{{H2889}}`): "Pure" in a ritual, moral, or physical sense, often related to cleanliness and holiness.
The distinction of חֹר (H2715) lies in its unique dual derivation from a root signifying heat/purification, leading to both physical whiteness and social nobility.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of חֹר (H2715) primarily emerges from its usage describing "nobles" within Israelite society.
1. **Social Responsibility:** The frequent mention of the חֹרִים in Nehemiah highlights the crucial role and responsibility of the societal elite. Their actions, whether oppressive (as in [[Nehemiah 5:7]] where they exact usury) or cooperative (as in the rebuilding of the wall), directly impact the well-being and spiritual integrity of the community. The prophets consistently call out the abuses of power by the rich and powerful, making the behavior of the "nobles" a matter of divine concern. True nobility, from a biblical perspective, is not merely inherited status but is demonstrated through righteous living, justice, and care for the vulnerable.
2. **Ideal of Purity:** While the "noble" usage of חֹר doesn't directly imply moral purity, the underlying etymological connection to "white" and "pure" from fire's refining process subtly suggests an ideal. In God's covenant community, those in positions of leadership were ideally meant to embody a higher standard of conduct, reflecting God's own holiness and justice. The contrast between the inherent meaning of purity and the often-corrupt practices of the "nobles" can serve as a poignant commentary on human failure to live up to divine expectations.
3. **Divine Order vs. Human Hierarchy:** The existence of "nobles" reflects a human social hierarchy. However, the biblical narrative often critiques such hierarchies when they lead to injustice or spiritual compromise. God's ultimate standard for leadership is not based on birth or wealth, but on righteousness, humility, and service, as exemplified by figures like Moses and David, and ultimately by Christ, who redefined true greatness as service (e.g., [[Mark 10:42-45]]).
### Summary
The Hebrew word חֹר (H2715), derived from a root meaning "to scorch" or "to dry up," holds a dual semantic range: "white" or "pure" and, by extension, "noble" or "free." Its literal sense of "white" is seen in references to fine linen, highlighting a quality of purity and distinction. More prominently, חֹר denotes the societal elite or "nobles" in the Old Testament, particularly in the books of Kings and Nehemiah, often appearing alongside "officials" or "elders." These individuals held positions of significant influence and responsibility within Israelite society. Theologically, the usage of חֹר underscores the biblical emphasis on the accountability of those in power. While the term itself describes a social class, its etymological roots in "purity" subtly point to an ideal standard for leadership, contrasting with instances where these "nobles" failed to uphold justice and righteousness, thus serving as a reminder of God's demand for integrity from all, especially those entrusted with authority.
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