The Aramaic word chărats, represented by H2783, refers to the loin. The definition notes it is from a root corresponding to a word meaning vigor, highlighting the loin as the seat of strength. This is a very specific term, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible.
The single biblical context for H2783 is a moment of intense fear and judgment in Daniel 5:6. King Belshazzar, in the midst of a feast, sees a hand writing a divine message on the wall. His reaction is described physically: "the king's countenance was changed, and his thoughts troubled him, so that the joints of his loins were loosed, and his knees smote one against another" Daniel 5:6. The loosening of the loins here vividly portrays a complete loss of bodily control and strength in the face of terrifying divine power.
The words used alongside H2783 in its single appearance help to build the scene of the king's terror:
- H8271 shᵉrêʼ (to free, separate; figuratively, to unravel, commence; by implication (of unloading beasts) to reside; begin, dissolve, loose): This verb describes the action that happens to the king's loins. They were "loosed," signifying that the very core of his physical strength was undone Daniel 5:6.
- H927 bᵉhal (to terrify, hasten; in haste, trouble): This word identifies the cause of the physical reaction. The king's thoughts "troubled" him, leading directly to the physical collapse symbolized by the state of his loins Daniel 5:6.
- H755 ʼarkubâh (the knee; knee): Used in parallel with the loins, the king's "knees" knocking together reinforces the image of a body that has lost all stability and is overcome by fear Daniel 5:6.
- H7001 qᵉṭar (a knot (as tied up), i.e. (figuratively) a riddle; also a vertebra (as if a knot); doubt, joint): This specifies the part of the loins that were loosed—the "joints" or vertebrae, suggesting a profound structural collapse within the king's body from sheer fright Daniel 5:6.
The theological significance of H2783 is derived entirely from this one powerful narrative moment.
- The Frailty of Earthly Power: The use of chărats to describe the physical state of a king H4430 shows how quickly human strength and authority can dissolve when confronted by divine judgment Daniel 5:6.
- Physical Manifestation of Terror: The loosening of the loins provides a visceral picture of what abject fear before God looks like. It is not merely an emotional state but something that has a debilitating physical impact.
- Symbol of Utter Weakness: By targeting the loin, seen as the seat of vigor, the text emphasizes the totality of the king's collapse. His strength has not just diminished; it has been completely unbound and dissolved.
In summary, chărats H2783 is a rare but impactful word. Its single use to mean loin in Daniel 5:6 transforms it from a simple anatomical term into a powerful symbol. It captures the physical consequences of divine judgment, illustrating how the strength of a powerful king completely disintegrates when faced with the undeniable and terrifying power of God.
TRV