### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **chorbâh**, represented by `{{H2723}}`, describes a **desolation** or a **waste place**. It appears 42 times in 42 unique verses. Stemming from a word meaning drought, `{{H2723}}` properly denotes a state of desolation, destruction, or a decayed place, often as a result of divine judgment or abandonment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H2723}}` is used in several key contexts. It is frequently employed by the prophets to describe the consequence of sin and disobedience. God warns through Leviticus that He will make the cities of Israel **waste** `{{H2723}}` if they break the covenant [[Leviticus 26:31]]. Jeremiah echoes this, declaring that Jerusalem and the cities of Judah will become "perpetual **desolations**" `{{H2723}}` due to their rebellion [[Jeremiah 25:9]]. However, the term is also used in promises of restoration, as when Isaiah proclaims the LORD will comfort Zion and all her **waste places** `{{H2723}}`, making her wilderness like Eden [[Isaiah 51:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of desolation and ruin:
* `{{H2721}}` **chôreb** (drought or desolation): This is a collateral form of the root word, often emphasizing the cause of desolation, such as heat or drought. In prophecy, it is used in parallel with `{{H2723}}` to describe cities that will become a **waste** [[Jeremiah 49:13]].
* `{{H2763}}` **châram** (to seclude; specifically (by a ban) to devote to religious uses (especially destruction)): This verb describes the action that often leads to the state of `{{H2723}}`. It refers to the act of utterly destroying something as a judgment, as seen when God promises to **utterly destroy** the nations, making them perpetual desolations [[Jeremiah 25:9]].
* `{{H8047}}` **shammâh** (ruin; by implication, consternation): This word is frequently paired with `{{H2723}}` to describe the shocking and astonishing nature of the ruin. The land of Judah is described as becoming a **desolation** `{{H2723}}` and an **astonishment** `{{H8047}}` [[Jeremiah 25:11]].
* `{{H8077}}` **shᵉmâmâh** (devastation): A feminine noun derived from a related root, it also signifies desolation and is used interchangeably with `{{H2723}}`. The land of Egypt is prophesied to become desolate and **waste** `{{H2723}}`, and also **desolate** `{{H8077}}` [[Ezekiel 29:9-10]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2723}}` is significant, highlighting the themes of divine judgment and sovereign restoration.
* **A Sign of Judgment:** The presence of a **chorbâh** is a physical manifestation of God's wrath against sin. Lands, cities, and sanctuaries are turned into **wastes** `{{H2723}}` as a direct result of disobedience and abominations ([[Jeremiah 44:22]], [[Leviticus 26:31]]).
* **The Promise of Restoration:** The very places of ruin become the focus of God's redemptive promises. God pledges to rebuild the "old **waste places**" `{{H2723}}` and raise up former desolations, demonstrating His power to bring life from destruction ([[Isaiah 61:4]], [[Ezekiel 36:33]]).
* **A State of Emptiness:** A **chorbâh** is a land devoid of its former glory and inhabitants. It can describe a literal desert where God provides water [[Isaiah 48:21]], a habitat for animals like owls [[Psalms 102:6]], or a place of ruin built by powerful kings [[Job 3:14]], symbolizing a complete and utter end.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2723}}` is more than a simple geographical descriptor for a ruin. It is a powerful biblical symbol that illustrates the stark reality of divine judgment on sin and the profound hope of God's restorative power. The transformation from a **chorbâh** back to a thriving community is a recurring testament to God's covenant faithfulness, showing His ability to comfort His people and make their **waste places** rejoice [[Isaiah 52:9]].
TRV