a primitive root; properly, to leap suddenly, i.e. (by implication) to be dismayed; be afraid.
Transliteration:chârag
Pronunciation:khaw-rag'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew root `{{H2727}}` (חָרַג, *chârag*) is a primitive root, conveying the primary sense of "to leap suddenly" or "to spring." From this literal action, it acquires the derived, metaphorical meaning of "to be dismayed" or "to be afraid." The underlying semantic connection lies in the involuntary, sudden physical reaction to an unexpected and terrifying stimulus—much like a startled animal might suddenly leap away from danger. Thus, it describes a profound, immediate apprehension or dread that grips an individual, often leading to a sudden, almost reflexive response. It implies an overwhelming sense of alarm rather than a prolonged state of anxiety.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The root `{{H2727}}` is notably rare in the Hebrew Bible, appearing only once in the Masoretic Text.
* **[[1 Samuel 21:10]] (MT 21:11):** "And David arose and fled that day from before Saul, and went to Achish the king of Gath. And David was sore afraid of Achish the king of Gath."
* In this sole occurrence, the verb describes David's intense emotional state upon arriving in Gath, a Philistine city, while fleeing from Saul. Having sought refuge with Achish, David is recognized by Achish's servants as the renowned warrior who slew "tens of thousands" ([[1 Samuel 21:11]]). This recognition immediately puts David in a precarious and life-threatening situation, as he is now in the territory of Israel's enemies, known for his prowess against them. The use of *chârag* here powerfully conveys the sudden and profound fear that seizes David. It is not merely a mild apprehension but a deep, visceral dread that prompts his subsequent desperate act of feigning madness ([[1 Samuel 21:13]]) to escape the perceived danger. The context underscores the vulnerability of even a divinely chosen figure like David when confronted with overwhelming human threat.
### Related Words & Concepts
While `{{H2727}}` is unique in its rarity and specific nuance, it intersects with a broader lexical field of fear, dread, and dismay in Hebrew.
* `{{H3372}}` (יָרֵא, *yare*): A very common word for "to fear," often encompassing both reverential awe (fear of God) and general apprehension or dread. Unlike *chârag*, *yare* does not inherently carry the connotation of suddenness or a physical reactive leap.
* `{{H6342}}` (פָּחַד, *pachad*): Signifies "dread" or "terror," often implying a sudden, overwhelming fear that causes trembling or consternation. This word shares the aspect of suddenness with *chârag* but may not imply the "leaping" aspect as directly.
* `{{H2865}}` (חָתַת, *chathath*): Means "to be shattered," "dismayed," or "terrified." It speaks to a state of being broken or disheartened by fear, often implying a loss of courage or resolve.
* `{{H926}}` (בָּהַל, *bahal*): To be "disturbed," "dismayed," or "terrified," often with a sense of urgency or haste. Like *chârag*, it can describe a sudden onset of fear.
* `{{H2729}}` (חָרַד, *charad*): "To tremble," "to be anxious," "to be afraid." The noun form `{{H2730}}` (חֲרָדָה, *charadah*) means "trembling" or "fear." While not directly cognate to `{{H2727}}`, the semantic domain of sudden, physical manifestation of fear (trembling, leaping) links these concepts.
The distinctiveness of `{{H2727}}` lies in its vivid imagery of a sudden, almost involuntary physical reaction—a "leap" or "startle"—that immediately translates into intense dismay or fear.
### Theological Significance
The singular occurrence of `{{H2727}}` in the biblical narrative, specifically in the context of David's flight, carries significant theological weight.
1. **Human Vulnerability:** It starkly portrays the humanity and vulnerability of even God's anointed. David, the future king and "man after God's own heart," is not immune to profound, sudden fear when faced with mortal danger. This serves as a reminder that faith does not negate human emotions or the reality of perilous circumstances.
2. **Divine Providence amidst Human Weakness:** David's fear, though intense, does not lead to his demise. Instead, it prompts a desperate, human strategy (feigning madness) that ultimately allows him to escape. This episode, including David's raw fear, is part of God's overarching plan for his life, demonstrating how divine providence can work even through moments of human weakness, fear, and reliance on self-preservation.
3. **Authenticity of Biblical Narrative:** The inclusion of such a powerful and unvarnished description of fear lends authenticity to the biblical portrayal of its characters. It shows that the heroes of faith were real people with real struggles, anxieties, and fears, making their journey of faith all the more relatable and inspiring.
4. **The Nature of Fear:** The word underscores that fear, particularly the sudden, overwhelming kind, can be a potent and disorienting force, capable of driving individuals to extreme measures for survival.
### Summary
The Hebrew verb `{{H2727}}` (חָרַג, *chârag*) is a rare but potent term, primarily meaning "to leap suddenly" and, by extension, "to be dismayed" or "to be afraid." Its singular appearance in [[1 Samuel 21:10]] vividly describes David's profound and sudden fear upon being recognized in Gath, a fear so intense that it prompted him to feign madness for survival. This word uniquely captures the immediate, almost reflexive, and overwhelming nature of intense apprehension, akin to a startled physical reaction. Theologically, it highlights the authentic human vulnerability of biblical figures, demonstrating that even those chosen by God experience deep fear, yet God's providence remains active even amidst such moments of human weakness. It offers a raw and insightful glimpse into the psychological impact of sudden danger on the human spirit within the biblical narrative.
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