### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **chârag**, represented by `{{H2727}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to leap suddenly**. By implication, it conveys the idea **to be dismayed; be afraid**. This specific term is quite rare, as it appears only **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, making its single usage particularly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H2727}}` is in [[Psalms 18:45]], where the psalmist describes the fate of enemies. The verse states, "The strangers shall fade away, and **be afraid** out of their close places." In this context, **chârag** depicts a sudden, panicked fear that causes the "strangers" to come leaping out of their strongholds or hiding places. It is not just a passive feeling of fear but one that results in immediate, startled action.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of `{{H2727}}` is illuminated by the words surrounding it in its only biblical context:
* `{{H5034}}` **nâbêl** (to wilt; generally, to fall away, fail, faint): In [[Psalms 18:45]], this word is translated as "fade away," describing the decline and withering of the enemy in parallel with their fear. It is also used to describe a fading flower [[Isaiah 40:8]] or a dishonorable son [[Micah 7:6]].
* `{{H5236}}` **nêkâr** (foreign, or (concretely) a foreigner): This word identifies those who experience the fear of `{{H2727}}` as "strangers." It is often associated with foreign people or, by extension, the "strange gods" they worship [[Genesis 35:2]].
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son): In [[Psalms 18:45]], this is used in conjunction with `{{H5236}}` to literally mean "sons of the stranger." This construction is used elsewhere to describe groups of people, such as the "sons of men" [[Psalms 31:19]] or "sons of Jacob" [[Malachi 3:6]].
* `{{H4526}}` **miçgereth** (something enclosing... a stronghold; border, close place, hole): This refers to the "close places" or strongholds from which the frightened strangers emerge. The word can denote a secure border [[Exodus 25:25]] or a hiding place, such as the "holes" from which people move in fear [[Micah 7:17]].
### Theological Significance
The thematic significance of `{{H2727}}`, while based on a single verse, is potent and focused.
* **The Terror of God's Enemies:** The word is exclusively used to describe the dismay of "strangers" or foreigners. This fear is a direct response to the power of God, causing them to abandon their defenses in panic [[Psalms 18:45]].
* **The Failure of Worldly Security:** The action of being afraid "out of their close places" `{{H4526}}` demonstrates that earthly strongholds provide no ultimate protection. The fear described by **chârag** is one that overwhelms any sense of physical safety.
* **Sudden Collapse and Defeat:** Paired with the concept of "fading away" `{{H5034}}`, **chârag** contributes to a picture of complete and sudden collapse. The enemy does not just weaken over time but is seized by a sudden dismay that marks their ultimate downfall.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2727}}` **chârag** provides a vivid and concise image of sudden, action-inducing fear. Though it appears only once, its placement in [[Psalms 18:45]] powerfully illustrates the biblical theme of God's power causing dismay among His enemies. It shows that their strength will "fade away" and their strongholds will fail, culminating in a terror that makes them leap from their supposed places of safety.
TRV