### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **châraq**, represented by `{{H2786}}`, is a primitive root defined as **to grate the teeth; gnash**. It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible, consistently depicting an intense and visceral reaction of hostility or anguish. It is a physical manifestation of deep-seated rage, hatred, and contempt.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H2786}}` is exclusively used to describe the actions of the wicked, enemies, or mockers. It is an expression of malice, as when the wicked **plotteh** `{{H2161}}` against the just and **gnasheth** upon him with his teeth [[Psalms 37:12]]. This act also portrays profound grief and impotent rage, where the wicked sees the state of the righteous, is **grieved** `{{H3707}}`, and **gnashes** his teeth before melting away in defeat [[Psalms 112:10]]. In a state of affliction, Job uses this term to describe his enemy, who **gnasheth** upon him as an act of personal hatred and wrath [[Job 16:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help frame the context of animosity surrounding the act of gnashing teeth:
* `{{H7563}}` **râshâʻ** (wicked): This term identifies the character of those who perform the action. It is the **wicked** who plots against the just and gnashes his teeth in rage and eventual despair ([[Psalms 37:12]], [[Psalms 112:10]]).
* `{{H341}}` **ʼôyêb** (enemy): This word defines the hostile relationship. In Lamentations, Israel's **enemies** open their mouths, hiss, and **gnash** the teeth in triumph over Jerusalem's destruction [[Lamentations 2:16]].
* `{{H3707}}` **kaʻaç** (to be grieved, rage): This root word reveals the powerful emotion driving the physical act. The wicked is **grieved** with rage upon seeing the righteous, leading directly to the gnashing of teeth [[Psalms 112:10]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2786}}` is found in its portrayal of the heart of the ungodly.
* **A Sign of Impotent Fury:** The act of gnashing teeth is not a sign of strength but of frustrated rage. The wicked man gnashes his teeth and then **melts away** `{{H4549}}`, and his desire will **perish** `{{H6}}`, showing his ultimate powerlessness [[Psalms 112:10]].
* **Expression of Malicious Contempt:** The gesture is linked with deep scorn. In [[Psalms 35:16]], it is performed by **hypocritical** `{{H2611}}` **mockers** `{{H3934}}`. Likewise, enemies combine it with hissing as they mock a fallen Jerusalem, believing they have **swallowed her up** `{{H1104}}` [[Lamentations 2:16]].
* **Manifestation of Hostility:** Gashing teeth is the outward display of inward hatred and wrath. It accompanies the violent tearing and hateful gaze of an **enemy** `{{H6862}}` bent on destruction [[Job 16:9]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2786}}` is a powerful and graphic term that signifies more than a simple physical tic. It is a scriptural indicator of profound spiritual sickness, revealing a heart consumed by rage, hatred, and malice. The act of gnashing teeth is consistently attributed to the wicked and enemies of God's people, often as a final, desperate expression of fury in the face of their own ultimate defeat.
TRV