The Hebrew word chereç, represented by H2775, holds a unique dual meaning for both itch and sun. It is derived from an unused root meaning to scrape. This term appears only 4 times across 4 unique verses in the Bible, making each of its occurrences distinct in its application.
In its biblical usage, H2775 is applied in two starkly different contexts. It is used once to describe a physical malady, appearing in a list of curses as an incurable itch that the LORD H3068 will smite H5221 the disobedient with Deuteronomy 28:27. In its other three appearances, chereç refers to the sun. It signifies God's absolute power over creation, as He is the one who "commandeth H559 the sun, and it riseth H2224 not" Job 9:7. It also functions as a natural timekeeper in narrative accounts, marking events as happening "before the sun was up" Judges 8:13 or "before the sun went down H935" Judges 14:18.
Several related words help illuminate the distinct contexts of H2775:
- H1618 gârâb (scab, scurvy): Defined as scurf from itching, this word is used alongside itch in the list of divine judgments, highlighting the nature of the physical affliction Deuteronomy 28:27.
- H2224 zârach (to rise): Meaning to irradiate or rise like the sun, this word is directly paired with chereç to describe God's power to prevent the sun from rising Job 9:7.
- H3556 kôwkâb (star): Mentioned in the same breath as the sun in Job's description of God's power, these celestial bodies are also subject to His command to be sealed up H2856 Job 9:7.
The conceptual weight of H2775 is demonstrated through its two applications:
- Divine Judgment: As the itch, it symbolizes a severe and inescapable punishment from God H3068. The affliction is explicitly described as one that cannot be healed H7495, emphasizing its role as a divine curse for disobedience Deuteronomy 28:27.
- Sovereign Control: As the sun, the word is used to illustrate God's ultimate authority over the cosmos. His ability to command H559 the sun not to rise H2224 shows His power over the fundamental elements of creation Job 9:7.
In summary, H2775 is a potent word whose meaning shifts dramatically with its context. While appearing infrequently, chereç effectively conveys two powerful ideas: the misery of an incurable physical ailment sent as a curse, and the immense power of the celestial sun. These uses underscore God's authority over both the human body and the cosmic order, demonstrating how one word can encompass both judgment and creation.
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