חַרְחֻר

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Hebrew word charchur, represented by H2746, means extreme burning. Derived from a root word signifying heat, it describes a feverish condition. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible, making it a highly specific term for a severe affliction.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

The singular use of H2746 is found in a list of curses for disobedience. In Deuteronomy 28:22, the LORD H3068 warns that He will smite H5221 the people with a series of calamities, including "consumption H7829, and with a fever H6920, and with an inflammation H1816, and with an extreme burning H2746." It is presented as a direct and devastating form of divine judgment, one of several afflictions that will pursue H7291 the unfaithful until they perish H6.

Related Words & Concepts

Several related words help clarify the context of this severe punishment:

• H6920 qaddachath (fever): This word describes a "burning ague, fever." It is listed as a divine punishment that will "consume the eyes, and cause sorrow of heart" Leviticus 26:16.
• H1816 dalleqeth (inflammation): Defined as a "burning fever," this term appears immediately before H2746 in the same list of curses, emphasizing the theme of intense, feverish sickness as a tool of judgment Deuteronomy 28:22.
• H5221 nâkâh (smite): This is the action verb used to inflict the "extreme burning." It means "to strike" or "smite" and is used to describe God's judgment against the disobedient Deuteronomy 28:22 as well as His chastisement from which healing can follow Hosea 6:1.

Theological Significance

The theological weight of H2746 is centered on the consequences of covenant disobedience.

• Divine Judgment: "Extreme burning" is not a random illness but a specific curse inflicted by the LORD H3068 as a punishment for turning away from Him Deuteronomy 28:22.
• Tangible Consequences: The word illustrates how spiritual rebellion results in severe physical suffering. It is listed among other tangible afflictions like wasting diseases, agricultural blight, and defeat by the sword H2719, as described in Deuteronomy 28:22.
• Instrument of Destruction: As part of a relentless series of curses, H2746 serves to "pursue" the disobedient until they "perish" H6, underscoring the gravity and finality of God's judgment against persistent sin Deuteronomy 28:22.

Summary

In summary, H2746 charchur is a rare but potent term. Though used only once, its context in Deuteronomy 28:22 powerfully defines it as an instrument of divine wrath. It represents an intense, feverish affliction sent by God as a direct consequence of disobedience, contributing to a broader theological picture of covenantal accountability and the severe repercussions of sin.