from the plural of חֶרֶא and the plural of יוֹנָה; or perhaps rather the plural of a single word חֲרָאיוֹן, probably a kind of vegetable; excrements of doves {or a vegetable}; doves' dung.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term **chărêy-yôwnîym**, represented by `{{H2755}}`, translates as **doves' dung**. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses. The exact nature of the substance is debated, as the term may refer to the literal "excrements of doves" or perhaps a type of cheap vegetable, like a bulbous root.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two appearances of `{{H2755}}` in scripture occur in contexts of extreme hardship and siege. In 2 Kings, it is listed as a commodity sold during a terrible famine in Samaria, where "the fourth part of a cab of **dove's dung**" was sold for five pieces of silver [[2 Kings 6:25]]. Later, Rabshakeh uses the concept as a threat, taunting the defenders of Jerusalem that they will be forced to "eat their own **dung**" [[2 Kings 18:27]], illustrating a state of ultimate degradation.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify its meaning and context:
* `{{H1686}}` **dibyôwn**: This word, also translated as **dove's dung**, is noted in the margin of some texts for the occurrence in [[2 Kings 6:25]]. Its definition suggests it is "probably some cheap vegetable," reinforcing the interpretation that `{{H2755}}` may not be literal excrement.
* `{{H3123}}` **yôwnâh**: The word for **dove** or pigeon. It is often used as a term of endearment and beauty, as in "My **dove**, my undefiled is but one" [[Song of Solomon 6:9]], providing a stark contrast to the substance named in `{{H2755}}`.
* `{{H6675}}` **tsôwʼâh**: This word means **excrement** or **filth**. It is used alongside `{{H2755}}` in the account of Rabshakeh's taunt [[2 Kings 18:27]] and is also used figuratively for moral pollution, such as the "filth of the daughters of Zion" [[Isaiah 4:4]].
### Theological Significance
The thematic significance of `{{H2755}}` is tied to its depiction of human suffering and debasement.
* **Siege and Famine:** Its sale during the famine in Samaria graphically portrays the depths of desperation to which people are driven, where items of little to no value become expensive necessities for survival [[2 Kings 6:25]].
* **Psychological Warfare:** The term is weaponized by Rabshakeh to demoralize his enemies, painting a picture of complete humiliation and prophesying a grim fate for those who resist his master [[2 Kings 18:27]].
* **Symbol of Worthlessness:** Whether a plant or literal dung, the substance represents the lowest-value food imaginable, highlighting the utter desperation of a besieged city.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2755}}` is a rare but vivid term in the Old Testament. While its precise identity as "doves' dung" or a cheap vegetable is uncertain, its purpose in the narrative is clear. It serves as a powerful symbol of the horrific conditions brought on by famine and warfare, illustrating the extremes of physical deprivation and psychological humiliation.
TRV