### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **chărûwts**, represented by `{{H2742}}`, carries a range of meanings connected by the root idea of being incised, sharp, or decisive. It appears **18 times** across **17 unique verses**, used to describe concepts including **fine gold**, a **diligent** person, a **sharp** threshing instrument, and a moment of **decision**. This versatility illustrates how a single term can encompass material value, personal character, and divine action.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H2742}}` is used in several distinct contexts. As a reference to precious metal, it is often presented as less valuable than wisdom or knowledge ([[Proverbs 8:10]], [[Proverbs 16:16]]). In [[Zechariah 9:3]], Tyrus heaps up fine **gold** like mire in the streets. Figuratively, it describes the character of a **diligent** individual, whose efforts lead to wealth [[Proverbs 10:4]], abundance [[Proverbs 21:5]], and authority [[Proverbs 12:24]]. The word also denotes sharp or pointed objects, such as a **threshing instrument** used for judgment ([[Amos 1:3]], [[Isaiah 41:15]]) and the trench-like **wall** of Jerusalem [[Daniel 9:25]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{H2742}}` in its various applications:
* `{{H6102}}` **ʻâtsêl** (slothful, sluggard): This word serves as a direct contrast to the diligent person. In [[Proverbs 13:4]], the soul of the **sluggard** desires but has nothing, while the soul of the **diligent** `{{H2742}}` is made fat.
* `{{H1758}}` **dûwsh** (to trample or thresh): This verb describes the action performed with a **threshing instrument** `{{H2742}}`. This pairing appears in contexts of punishment or judgment, such as the threshing of Gilead [[Amos 1:3]].
* `{{H6238}}` **ʻâshar** (to be rich): This is the outcome often associated with the hand of the **diligent** `{{H2742}}`. [[Proverbs 10:4]] states that diligence is the path to becoming rich.
* `{{H1129}}` **bânâh** (to build): This word is used in conjunction with `{{H2742}}` in its meaning as a wall. The prophecy in [[Daniel 9:25]] declares that the street and the **wall** `{{H2742}}` will be **built** again.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2742}}` is demonstrated through its figurative applications, which teach important moral and spiritual lessons.
* **The Virtue of Diligence:** The book of Proverbs consistently uses `{{H2742}}` to contrast the outcomes of diligence and sloth. A diligent person's thoughts lead to plenteousness [[Proverbs 21:5]], their soul is satisfied [[Proverbs 13:4]], and their substance is precious [[Proverbs 12:27]].
* **The Supreme Value of Wisdom:** When used for "gold," `{{H2742}}` often appears in comparisons that elevate divine wisdom and instruction above material wealth. Gaining wisdom is better than **gold** [[Proverbs 16:16]], and its gain is better than **fine gold** [[Proverbs 3:14]].
* **Divine Judgment:** The word’s connection to sharp, cutting instruments is used to symbolize God's decisive action. In [[Isaiah 41:15]], God makes Israel a **sharp** threshing instrument to judge the nations. This idea culminates in [[Joel 3:14]], where the Lord’s day of judgment occurs in the "valley of **decision** `{{H2742}}`."
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2742}}` is a multifaceted word that connects the tangible concepts of a sharp tool and precious gold with the abstract qualities of diligence and decisiveness. It serves as a cornerstone in biblical wisdom literature to illustrate the practical rewards of a virtuous life and to depict the penetrating and final nature of God's judgment. From the value of a diligent hand to the finality of the valley of decision, **chărûwts** encapsulates the idea that what is sharp, determined, and valuable has a powerful impact in both the material and spiritual realms.
TRV