### 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.
TRV