(Aramaic) from a root corresponding to חָרַץ in the sense of vigor; the loin (as the seat of strength); loin.
Transliteration:chărats
Pronunciation:khar-ats'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic term `{{H2783}}` (חֲרַץ, *chărats*) is derived from a root that corresponds to the Hebrew `{{H2782}}` (חָרַץ), carrying the primary sense of "vigor" or "strength." As a noun, `{{H2783}}` specifically denotes the "loin," understood not merely as a anatomical region but as the very seat of physical strength, power, and often, procreative capacity in ancient Near Eastern thought. Its semantic range is quite narrow, focusing on this particular bodily area, yet it is imbued with the profound implication of the power residing within it.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{H2783}}` appears exclusively in the Aramaic portions of the Book of Daniel. Its most prominent and impactful occurrence is in [[Daniel 5:6]], describing King Belshazzar's terrifying reaction to the mysterious handwriting on the wall: "Then the king’s face turned pale and his thoughts so alarmed him that his loins gave way and his knees knocked together."
In this context, the phrase "his loins gave way" (literally, "the joints of his loins were loosed") powerfully conveys a complete physical collapse brought on by extreme terror and the overwhelming realization of impending divine judgment. The loins, being the perceived center of bodily strength and stability, losing their firmness signifies utter helplessness and the complete disintegration of physical and mental composure. This is not merely a description of fear but a profound depiction of a man utterly undone, his strength drained from the very core of his being, in the face of God's manifest power and decree.
### Related Words & Concepts
The Aramaic `{{H2783}}` finds its conceptual parallels and cognates in Hebrew. The most direct connection is to the Hebrew `{{H2782}}` (חָרַץ), which can mean "to cut," "to decide," or "to be sharp/vigorous." While the noun `{{H2783}}` refers to a body part, the underlying root sense of "vigor" or "decisiveness" links it to the idea of strength.
More broadly, `{{H2783}}` functions similarly to the more common Hebrew term for "loins," `{{H4975}}` (מָתְנַיִם, *motnayim*). Both terms denote the lower back/waist area and are frequently associated with strength, readiness for action (e.g., "girding up the loins" - [[1 Kings 18:46]], [[Proverbs 31:17]]), and procreation ([[Genesis 35:11]]). The "loosening of the loins" in [[Daniel 5:6]] stands in stark contrast to the biblical imagery of "girding the loins," which signifies preparedness, strength, and resolve.
Concepts related to `{{H2783}}` include:
* **Strength and Weakness:** The loins represent a locus of power, and their loosening signifies the ultimate loss of that power.
* **Terror and Judgment:** The physical manifestation of fear and collapse when confronted with divine judgment.
* **Vulnerability:** The exposure of human frailty before the might of God.
### Theological Significance
The singular, yet profound, use of `{{H2783}}` in [[Daniel 5:6]] carries significant theological weight. Belshazzar's experience serves as a dramatic illustration of the overwhelming and debilitating power of God's judgment. When God's hand writes on the wall, human strength, pride, and perceived security immediately dissolve. The "loosening of the loins" is a visceral metaphor for the stripping away of all human self-sufficiency and power in the face of divine sovereignty.
This physical collapse underscores a spiritual truth: that before the Holy and Just God, human beings are utterly vulnerable and without inherent strength to stand. Belshazzar, who had defiantly used sacred vessels for profane purposes, experienced a judgment that began at the very core of his physical being, symbolizing the complete undoing of his reign and life. It is a powerful reminder that all human authority and might are ultimately subject to the divine will and can be dissolved in an instant by God's decree.
### Summary
`{{H2783}}` (חֲרַץ, *chărats*) is an Aramaic term for "loin," specifically understood as the seat of physical vigor and strength. Its most notable occurrence is in [[Daniel 5:6]], where it vividly describes King Belshazzar's utter physical collapse—the "loosening of his loins"—in response to the terrifying divine handwriting on the wall. This powerful imagery signifies not merely fear but the complete dissolution of human strength and resolve in the face of God's overwhelming judgment. Theologically, it highlights human frailty and vulnerability before divine sovereignty, demonstrating that all human power and pride are ultimately subject to God's ultimate authority and can be undone at His command.
TRV