### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **chereʼ**, represented by `{{H2716}}`, is a vulgar term for **excrement** or **dung**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. The word derives from an unused root likely meaning to evacuate the bowels, and it is used to depict a state of extreme defilement and desperation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical use of `{{H2716}}` occurs in a moment of intense psychological warfare. During the Assyrian siege of Jerusalem, the official named Rabshakeh `{{H7262}}` taunts the city's defenders. He shouts to the men `{{H582}}` sitting `{{H3427}}` on the wall `{{H2346}}` that his master's `{{H113}}` message of doom is for them, who will face such dire circumstances that they will be forced to **eat** `{{H398}}` their own **dung** `{{H2716}}` and drink their own piss [[Isaiah 36:12]]. This lone instance uses the word to convey the ultimate horror and humiliation of a siege.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context help illuminate its meaning:
* `{{H6675}}` **tsôwʼâh** (excrement; generally, dirt; figuratively, pollution; dung, filth(-iness)): This is a direct synonym for `{{H2716}}` and is listed as a marginal reading for it. It is used to describe both literal and figurative uncleanness, such as the "filth of the daughters of Zion" [[Isaiah 4:4]].
* `{{H7262}}` **Rabshâqêh** (chief butler; Rabshakeh, a Babylonian official): This is the title of the official who speaks the verse containing `{{H2716}}`. His role is to deliver a demoralizing message from the king of Assyria to the people of Jerusalem [[Isaiah 36:13]].
* `{{H2346}}` **chôwmâh** (a wall of protection; wall, walled): This word establishes the physical setting of the confrontation, as Rabshakeh addresses his threats to the men positioned upon the **wall** [[Isaiah 36:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2716}}` lies entirely in its shocking and symbolic use in its only appearance.
* **Extreme Humiliation:** The word is used to paint a picture of the ultimate degradation possible in a siege. The threat is not just death but a complete loss of dignity, vividly illustrating the severity of the enemy's taunt [[Isaiah 36:12]].
* **Psychological Warfare:** As a tool in Rabshakeh's speech, the vulgar term is meant to break the spirit of God's people and undermine their faith. Its graphic nature is intended to create horror and emphasize the hopelessness of their situation.
* **Symbol of Defilement:** Excrement is inherently unclean. The threat of being forced to consume it serves as a powerful symbol of total defilement, the grim opposite of the holiness and blessing promised to God's people in His city.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2716}}` **chereʼ** is a rare and coarse word whose singular appearance in Scripture carries significant impact. Deployed by Rabshakeh during a siege, it functions as a tool of psychological warfare, creating a visceral image of desperation and defilement. Its significance is derived not from complex doctrine but from its raw, shocking power to communicate the depths of human humiliation and the horrors of being abandoned to a curse.
TRV