### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **chartsubbâh**, represented by `{{H2784}}`, refers to a fetter or band. While its derivation is uncertain, it is used figuratively to denote a pain or binding constraint. It appears only **2 times** across **2 unique verses**, making each occurrence significant in understanding its meaning as a form of severe affliction or bondage.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two uses of `{{H2784}}` illustrate its figurative depth. In [[Isaiah 58:6]], the word is central to defining a true fast. God asks if the chosen fast is not to "loose{H6605} the **bands**{H2784} of wickedness{H7562}," linking the term to spiritual and social oppression that must be dismantled. In contrast, [[Psalms 73:4]] uses the term to describe the wicked, stating "there are no **bands**{H2784} in their death{H4194}," suggesting they are seemingly free from the painful struggles and constraints that often characterize human life and mortality.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of bondage and release associated with `{{H2784}}`:
* `{{H4133}}` **môwṭâh** (yoke): Defined as "a pole; by implication, an ox-bow; hence, a yoke (either literal or figurative)." It appears alongside `{{H2784}}` in [[Isaiah 58:6]], which calls to "break{H5423} every yoke{H4133}," reinforcing the theme of oppressive burdens that must be broken.
* `{{H7562}}` **reshaʻ** (wickedness): This word, meaning "a wrong (especially moral); iniquity, wicked(-ness)," directly qualifies the "bands" in [[Isaiah 58:6]]. This specifies that the fetters are not physical but are the spiritual and moral bonds of sin and injustice.
* `{{H6605}}` **pâthach** (to loose, open): Meaning "to open wide (literally or figuratively); specifically, to loosen," this verb describes the prescribed action against the bands. It represents the divine mandate to set people free, as seen when God's people are called to "loose{H6605} the bands{H2784}" [[Isaiah 58:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2784}}` is concentrated in its powerful metaphorical applications.
* **Bondage of Sin and Injustice:** In Isaiah, the "bands of wickedness" are a metaphor for the systemic oppression and sin that bind people. True worship is defined by the active work of breaking these bonds and setting the oppressed{H7533} free [[Isaiah 58:6]].
* **The Problem of Evil:** The use in [[Psalms 73:4]] confronts the theological mystery of why the unrighteous seem to live and die without constraint. The observation that they have "no **bands** in their death{H4194}" highlights the psalmist's struggle to understand divine justice in a world where the wicked appear to prosper.
* **True Religious Practice:** The word is used to distinguish authentic godliness from mere ritual. A fast{H6685} without the corresponding action of loosing these "bands" is presented as meaningless to God [[Isaiah 58:6]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2784}}` is a rare but potent term for a fetter or band. Though appearing only twice, it powerfully illustrates two distinct concepts: the spiritual bondage caused by wickedness that must be actively dismantled [[Isaiah 58:6]], and the perplexing absence of struggle or pain in the lives of the unrighteous [[Psalms 73:4]]. It serves as a sharp biblical symbol for both the reality of oppressive constraints and the puzzling nature of human suffering.
TRV