from חָרַץ; a sour grape (as sharp in taste); kernel.
Transliteration:chartsan
Pronunciation:kchar-tsan'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term H2785 (חַרְצַן, *chartsan*) is derived from the root חָרַץ (`{{H2782}}` or `{{H2783}}`), which conveys the sense of "to cut," "to sharpen," "to decide," or "to determine." This etymological connection is crucial for understanding the semantic range of חַרְצַן. Primarily, it refers to the "kernel" or "seed" of a grape. The underlying notion of "sharpness" or "acidity" from its root suggests that *chartsan* specifically denotes the hard, often bitter or sour-tasting, inner part of the grape. It can also be understood as a "sour grape" itself, emphasizing the unpalatable nature. Thus, its core meaning encompasses both the physical seed and the qualitative aspect of its sharp, unpleasing taste.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term H2785 (חַרְצַן, *chartsan*) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in the book of Numbers:
* **[[Numbers 6:4]]**: "All the days of his separation he shall eat nothing that is produced by the grapevine, from the seeds even to the skin."
* In this sole occurrence, חַרְצַן is found within the regulations concerning the Nazirite vow. The verse specifies the comprehensive prohibition against consuming any product of the grapevine for one under this vow. The phrase "from the seeds (חַרְצַן) even to the skin (מִסְגֶּרֶת)" (or "from the kernels even to the husk") functions as a merism, indicating the entirety of the grapevine's produce, from its innermost, often unpalatable, parts to its outermost covering. This emphasizes the absolute and complete abstinence required of the Nazirite from anything associated with the vine. The inclusion of חַרְצַן underscores the meticulous nature of the separation; not merely the pleasant fruit or wine, but even the bitter, sharp kernels or sour, unappealing grapes are forbidden. This highlights the totality of the dedication and separation to Yahweh.
### Related Words & Concepts
The study of H2785 is enriched by its relationship to other biblical terms and theological concepts:
* **חָרַץ (`{{H2782}}`, `{{H2783}}`)**: The root verb, meaning "to cut," "to sharpen," "to decide," or "to determine." This connection reinforces the "sharp" or "acidic" quality implied in חַרְצַן, whether referring to the physical sharpness of a kernel or the taste of a sour grape.
* **גֶּפֶן (`{{H1612}}`)**: The general term for "vine" or "grapevine." חַרְצַן is a specific part of the גֶּפֶן.
* **עֵנָב (`{{H6025}}`)**: The general term for "grape" or "grapes." חַרְצַן is the kernel within the עֵנָב.
* **יַיִן (`{{H3196}}`)**: "Wine," another product of the grapevine that Nazirites were forbidden to consume. The prohibition of חַרְצַן complements the prohibition of יַיִן, showing the full scope of the abstinence.
* **Nazirite Vow**: The overarching concept within which חַרְצַן is found. This vow (Numbers 6) involved a period of special separation to God, marked by specific prohibitions, including abstention from all products of the grapevine, not cutting hair, and avoiding contact with the dead.
* **Separation/Holiness**: The core theological concept underlying the Nazirite vow. The meticulous avoidance of even the חַרְצַן signifies a radical and complete separation unto God, emphasizing purity and dedication.
### Theological Significance
The singular appearance of H2785 (חַרְצַן, *chartsan*) in the Nazirite vow carries profound theological weight. It serves as a powerful symbol of the *comprehensiveness* and *totality* of separation required for a life consecrated to God.
1. **Total Consecration**: By forbidding even the חַרְצַן—the kernel or sour grape, which is often discarded or considered undesirable—the Nazirite vow demands an absolute and unwavering dedication. It is not merely the pleasant or intoxicating aspects of the vine (wine, fresh grapes) that are forbidden, but every single part, down to the most minute and unpalatable. This teaches that true consecration involves surrendering *every aspect* of one's life, leaving no part untouched by the commitment to God.
2. **Meticulous Obedience**: The precise nature of the prohibition, extending to the חַרְצַן, underscores the importance of meticulous obedience to divine commands. It suggests that fidelity to God is not selective but requires adherence even in seemingly minor details, reflecting a heart fully submitted to His will.
3. **Symbol of Purity**: The Nazirite's separation was a visible sign of holiness. Abstaining from even the חַרְצַן reinforced this purity, setting the individual apart from common practices and symbolizing a life set apart for sacred purposes. It speaks to a pursuit of holiness that is thorough and uncompromising.
4. **Counter-Cultural Witness**: In a culture where wine and grapes were staple elements of diet and celebration, the Nazirite's complete abstention, symbolized by the חַרְצַן, served as a powerful counter-cultural witness to their unique devotion to Yahweh.
### Summary
H2785 (חַרְצַן, *chartsan*) refers to the "kernel" or "sour grape," deriving its meaning from the root for "cutting" or "sharpening," implying a hard or sharp-tasting quality. Its sole biblical occurrence in [[Numbers 6:4]] is within the context of the Nazirite vow, where it represents the uttermost extreme of the grapevine's produce, alongside the "skin" or "husk." Theologically, חַרְצַן is significant for symbolizing the complete and meticulous nature of the Nazirite's separation and dedication to Yahweh. It underscores that true consecration involves abstaining from *every* part of what is forbidden, even the seemingly insignificant or unpalatable, thereby emphasizing absolute purity, thorough obedience, and total devotion to God.
TRV