### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **chârêb**, represented by `{{H2720}}`, means **parched or ruined; desolate, dry, waste**. Derived from the root word חָרַב, it appears **10 times** in **10 unique verses** of the Bible. It primarily describes a state of physical destruction or barrenness, whether applied to cities, land, or even food.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H2720}}` is frequently used to describe the ruined state of Jerusalem and the house of God. Nehemiah describes Jerusalem as lying **waste** `{{H2720}}`, a sight that causes him great distress and is a source of reproach for the people ([[Nehemiah 2:3]], 2:17). Similarly, the prophet Haggai challenges the people for dwelling in fine houses while the LORD's house lies **waste** `{{H2720}}`, linking this neglect to their lack of prosperity ([[Haggai 1:4]], 1:9). The term also depicts a state of utter desolation, a place "without man and without beast" ([[Jeremiah 33:10]], 33:12). In a different context, it describes a **dry** morsel in Proverbs, contrasting simple food with peace against a house full of strife [[Proverbs 17:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand on the theme of desolation and its consequences:
* `{{H2040}}` **hâraç** (to pull down or in pieces, break, destroy): This verb represents the action that leads to the state of being `{{H2720}}`. In Ezekiel, cities that were once **ruined** `{{H2040}}` and **waste** `{{H2720}}` are promised to be rebuilt [[Ezekiel 36:35]].
* `{{H8074}}` **shâmêm** (to devastate... make desolate): Often used alongside `{{H2720}}` as a synonym to intensify the description of destruction. Both Jeremiah and Ezekiel pair these words to emphasize the complete desolation of the land and its cities before their restoration ([[Jeremiah 33:10]], [[Ezekiel 36:35]]).
* `{{H2781}}` **cherpâh** (contumely, disgrace... reproach): This word highlights the social and spiritual consequence of the physical ruin. For Nehemiah, Jerusalem lying **waste** `{{H2720}}` is directly connected to the people being a **reproach** `{{H2781}}` [[Nehemiah 2:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H2720}}` is tied to themes of judgment, neglect, and divine restoration.
* **A Sign of Neglect and Reproach:** The "waste" state of God's house in Haggai is presented as a direct consequence of the people's spiritual apathy and misplaced priorities [[Haggai 1:9]]. The desolation is a visible sign of their condition, leading to shame [[Nehemiah 2:17]].
* **A Precursor to Divine Restoration:** The desolation described by `{{H2720}}` is often the setting for God's greatest promises. The "waste cities" are prophesied to be filled again, and the desolate land is to become "like the garden of Eden," demonstrating God's power to bring life from ruin ([[Ezekiel 36:35]], [[Ezekiel 36:38]]).
* **A Symbol of Humble Peace:** In Proverbs, a "dry" `{{H2720}}` morsel is valued above a feast with **strife** `{{H7379}}`. Here, a state of being "parched" or simple is reframed as virtuous when accompanied by peace, elevating tranquility over material abundance [[Proverbs 17:1]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2720}}` is a potent term that moves beyond a simple description of physical ruin. It serves as a powerful symbol in Scripture, representing the tangible results of spiritual neglect and judgment. At the same time, it forms the desolate canvas upon which God demonstrates His restorative power, promising to turn what is **waste**, **dry**, and **ruined** into a place of abundance and life.
TRV