### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **châthâh**, represented by `{{H2846}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to lay hold of; especially to pick up fire; heap, take (away)**. It is a rare term, appearing only **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible, often in vivid, metaphorical contexts.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H2846}}` describes the act of taking or gathering, particularly with fire. Proverbs uses it to pose a rhetorical question about the consequences of sin, asking if a man can **take** fire in his bosom without being burned [[Proverbs 6:27]]. In Isaiah, it illustrates utter destruction, where a shattered vessel is so broken that not even a sherd can be found to **take** fire from a hearth [[Isaiah 30:14]]. It is also used to describe the act of **heaping** coals of fire on an enemy's head [[Proverbs 25:22]], and as a term for God's judgment, where He will **take away** the wicked [[Psalms 52:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand on the themes of destruction and removal associated with **châthâh**:
* `{{H5422}}` **nâthats**: This primitive root means **to tear down**. It is often used in commands to destroy idolatrous altars [[Exodus 34:13]] and is used alongside `{{H2846}}` to describe God's judgment [[Psalms 52:5]].
* `{{H5255}}` **nâçach**: Meaning **to tear away; destroy, pluck, root**, this word parallels the action of `{{H2846}}` in [[Psalms 52:5]]. It describes the LORD's action to **destroy** the house of the proud [[Proverbs 15:25]].
* `{{H8327}}` **shârash**: This root means **to root... or (by implication) to pluck from it**. It appears with `{{H2846}}` in the declaration that God will **root out** the wicked from the land of the living [[Psalms 52:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2846}}` is centered on the concepts of consequence and judgment.
* **Inevitable Consequence:** The use of the word in Proverbs serves as a powerful illustration that certain actions have unavoidable, damaging results, much like trying to **take** fire into one's lap [[Proverbs 6:27]].
* **Utter Ruin:** In the context of judgment, `{{H2846}}` helps paint a picture of complete and irreversible destruction, where nothing of value can be salvaged or **taken** from the wreckage [[Isaiah 30:14]].
* **Divine Action:** The word is used to describe God's active role in judgment, where He will personally **take away** and remove the wicked from their place of security [[Psalms 52:5]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2846}}` is a specific and impactful word that, despite its infrequent use, carries significant meaning. Primarily associated with the act of taking or heaping fire, it functions as a potent metaphor for the tangible consequences of sin, the totality of divine judgment, and the active removal of wickedness by God.
TRV