from חָרַף; contumely, disgrace, the pudenda; rebuke, reproach(-fully), shame.
Transliteration:cherpâh
Pronunciation:kher-paw'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew noun H2781 (חֶרְפָּה, *cherpâh*) is derived from the verb `{{H2778}}` (חָרַף, *ḥārap̱*), meaning "to taunt, reproach, defy." Consequently, its primary semantic range encompasses concepts of "reproach," "disgrace," "shame," "contempt," and "insult." It signifies a profound loss of honor, reputation, or dignity, often involving public humiliation or a deep sense of dishonor. While its core meaning revolves around verbal or social affront, the base definition also includes "the pudenda," indicating a potential, though less frequent, association with extreme nakedness, vulnerability, or sexual disgrace. At its heart, cherpâh describes a state of being scorned or subjected to ignominy, whether self-inflicted or imposed by others.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term cherpâh appears extensively throughout the Hebrew Bible, illuminating various facets of shame and reproach:
* **Social Disgrace:** Barrenness was a significant cherpâh for women in ancient Israel, as seen in Rachel's lament ([[Genesis 30:23]]) and the prophetic promise of its removal ([[Isaiah 4:1]]). This highlights the cultural value placed on fertility and the societal stigma associated with its absence.
* **Reproach Against God/His People:** Enemies frequently hurled cherpâh at Israel, which was perceived as a direct insult to Yahweh Himself. The Psalmist laments the "reproach of the scorner" ([[Psalm 42:10]]) and the "reproaches of those who reproach You" ([[Psalm 69:9]]) falling upon him. Similarly, Isaiah speaks of those who "do not fear the reproach of man" ([[Isaiah 51:7]]) when they trust in God. This demonstrates how the honor of God and His people were intrinsically linked.
* **Consequence of Sin and Disobedience:** cherpâh often serves as a divine judgment for Israel's covenant unfaithfulness. When Israel deviates from God's commands, they become a "reproach, a byword, a taunt, and a curse" among the nations ([[Deuteronomy 28:37]], [[Jeremiah 24:9]]). This public humiliation underscores the severity of breaking covenant with God.
* **Endurance by the Righteous:** Paradoxically, cherpâh is also experienced by the righteous for their faithfulness. The Psalmist declares, "For Your sake I have borne reproach" ([[Psalm 69:7]]), and "Turn away from me reproach and contempt" ([[Psalm 119:22]]). This foreshadows the suffering of Christ, who endured shame for the sake of righteousness.
* **Object of Scorn:** The term can also refer to the very object or situation that brings shame, such as the ruined walls of Jerusalem being a cherpâh ([[Nehemiah 1:3]]) or Israel becoming a cherpâh to the surrounding nations ([[Ezekiel 5:15]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
cherpâh is deeply connected to several related Hebrew terms and concepts:
* **Verbal Root:** Its direct etymological link to `{{H2778}}` (חָרַף *ḥārap̱*, "to taunt, reproach, defy") emphasizes the active nature of inflicting shame through verbal abuse or the experience of being subjected to such an attack.
* **Dishonor/Contempt:** Other words like `{{H937}}` (בּוּז *bûz*, "contempt, scorn") and `{{H7036}}` (קָלוֹן *qālôn*, "ignominy, infamy") often appear alongside or interchangeably with cherpâh to describe various forms of public disgrace and the loss of respect. qālôn particularly highlights the scandalous and infamous aspect of shame.
* **Nakedness/Exposure:** The less common meaning of "pudenda" links cherpâh to concepts of nakedness (`{{H5903}}` עֵירֹם *‘êrôm*) and exposure. In ancient Near Eastern thought, nakedness was profoundly shameful, signifying utter vulnerability, subjugation, and loss of dignity ([[Isaiah 20:4]]). This connection reinforces the extreme nature of the dishonor conveyed by cherpâh.
* **Lamentation:** The experience of cherpâh frequently elicits deep lamentation, sorrow, and fervent prayers for divine intervention and vindication, as evidenced in numerous Psalms.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of cherpâh is profound and multifaceted:
* **God's Honor and Reputation:** The concept of cherpâh underscores the supreme importance of God's honor and reputation in the biblical worldview. When Israel is shamed or reproached, it is often seen as a direct affront to God's name among the nations, prompting divine action to vindicate His glory ([[Ezekiel 36:20-23]]).
* **Consequence of Covenant Disobedience:** cherpâh serves as a tangible and painful consequence of breaking covenant with Yahweh. It is a visible sign of divine judgment and the broken relationship, intended to lead the people to repentance and a renewed commitment to God's ways ([[Jeremiah 24:9]]).
* **Suffering of the Righteous:** In a paradoxical turn, cherpâh is also a state endured by the righteous, especially prophets and faithful servants, who suffer for their devotion to God. This suffering anticipates the ultimate endurance of cherpâh by the Messiah, who "endured the cross, despising the shame" ([[Hebrews 12:2]]). This transforms cherpâh from a purely negative state into one that can be borne for God's glory and redemptive purposes.
* **Divine Restoration and Vindication:** A key aspect of eschatological hope is the promise that God will ultimately remove the cherpâh from His people. This signifies complete restoration, forgiveness, and the renewal of their dignity and honor in His sight ([[Isaiah 25:8]], [[Zephaniah 3:19]]). The removal of shame is an integral part of God's salvation plan.
### Summary
cherpâh (חֶרְפָּה) is a potent Hebrew term signifying "reproach," "disgrace," or "shame." Derived from the verb "to taunt," it encapsulates the public humiliation, loss of honor, and deep ignominy experienced by individuals or the community. Biblically, it manifests as the social stigma of barrenness, the taunts of enemies against God and His people, and the divine judgment on Israel for covenant disobedience. Theologically, cherpâh highlights the sanctity of God's honor, serves as a consequence of sin, and paradoxically becomes a state endured by the righteous, prefiguring Christ's suffering. Ultimately, the removal of cherpâh is a central promise of divine restoration and salvation, demonstrating God's commitment to vindicating His people and His own glorious name.
TRV