### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word chărâbôwn (`{{H2725}}`) is derived from the root chārab (`{{H2717}}`), which fundamentally means "to be dry," "to lie waste," or "to be desolate." Consequently, chărâbôwn encapsulates the concept of extreme dryness, specifically denoting "parching heat" or "drought." It describes a severe arid condition where the absence of moisture leads to barrenness and desolation. The term emphasizes not merely the state of being dry, but the debilitating and often destructive *effect* of such dryness, implying a condition of severe aridity that leads to a loss of vitality and productivity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term chărâbôwn (`{{H2725}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, found in [[Psalm 32:4]]. The verse reads, "For day and night Your hand was heavy upon me; my moisture was turned into the chărâbôwn of summer." In this deeply personal psalm, David is recounting the profound spiritual and emotional anguish he endured while attempting to conceal his sin. The "hand of God" here signifies the intense divine conviction or discipline that weighed heavily upon him. The metaphor "my moisture was turned into the chărâbôwn of summer" vividly illustrates the devastating impact of this spiritual burden. Just as vegetation withers and dries under the intense, relentless heat of a summer drought in the Near East, David's inner vitality, strength, and joy were drained away, leaving him feeling spiritually parched, desolate, and utterly depleted. This imagery powerfully conveys the debilitating effect of unconfessed sin on the soul.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **Root chārab (`{{H2717}}`):** This is the foundational root from which chărâbôwn derives, meaning "to be dry," "to lie waste," or "to be desolate." Other significant derivatives include:
* chōreb (`{{H2721}}`): "desolation," "waste," "dryness," "drought." This term is frequently used to describe ruined places or a state of barrenness.
* chereb (`{{H2719}}`): "sword," possibly related to its destructive, desolating effect, or its inherent "dryness" and sharpness.
* **tsiyôn (`{{H6723}}`):** Meaning "dryness" or "parched land," this term is conceptually similar, often used to describe arid regions.
* **tsamâ (`{{H6772}}`):** This word signifies "thirst." While chărâbôwn describes the *condition* of dryness, tsamâ refers to the *sensation* or *need* for moisture.
* **Spiritual Dryness:** The specific use of chărâbôwn in [[Psalm 32:4]] connects it to a broader biblical theme of spiritual desolation, which is frequently contrasted with the imagery of "living waters" or "streams" that symbolize God's refreshing presence and blessing (e.g., [[Psalm 42:1-2]], [[Jeremiah 2:13]]).
### Theological Significance
The singular occurrence of chărâbôwn (`{{H2725}}`) in [[Psalm 32:4]] carries profound theological weight. It serves as a potent metaphor for the debilitating consequences of unconfessed sin on the human spirit. The "parching heat" or "drought" vividly illustrates the spiritual desiccation experienced when one resists God's conviction and seeks to hide their transgressions. This condition is not merely a superficial discomfort but a deep, soul-level depletion of vitality, strength, and joy—a "withering" of the inner person under the oppressive weight of guilt and the absence of divine favor. The imagery powerfully underscores the truth that sin creates a separation and drains the spirit, leading to a state of spiritual barrenness. Conversely, the resolution to this spiritual "drought" is found immediately after in the psalm, through humble confession and the experience of God's forgiveness, which brings refreshment and renewed spiritual life. Thus, chărâbôwn highlights the critical necessity of repentance for maintaining spiritual well-being and communion with God.
### Summary
chărâbôwn (`{{H2725}}`) is a rare yet impactful Hebrew term derived from the root chārab (`{{H2717}}`), meaning "parching heat" or "drought." Its sole biblical appearance in [[Psalm 32:4]] provides a powerful metaphor for the profound spiritual desiccation and inner torment experienced by one who suppresses unconfessed sin. The word evokes the intense, draining effect of a severe summer drought, symbolizing the loss of vitality, joy, and spiritual moisture under the weight of divine conviction. The theological significance of chărâbôwn lies in its stark portrayal of the debilitating consequences of sin and, by implication, the profound relief and restoration found through confession and God's forgiveness. It serves as a vivid reminder of the soul's intrinsic need for spiritual refreshment, which only God can provide.
TRV