### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **kâleh**, represented by `{{H3616}}`, means to **fail** or describes a state of **pining**. It appears just **1 time** in the Bible, making its single usage highly specific and context-dependent. Its meaning is derived from the root word for pining.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole biblical appearance, `{{H3616}}` is used to depict a profound and sorrowful consequence of disobedience. In [[Deuteronomy 28:32]], it describes eyes `{{H5869}}` that **fail** from the perpetual, agonizing longing for sons `{{H1121}}` and daughters `{{H1323}}` who have been given `{{H5414}}` over to **another** `{{H312}}` people `{{H5971}}`. This failure is not just physical but emotional, a state of pining that continues all the **day** `{{H3117}}` long, coupled with a complete lack of **might** `{{H410}}` in one's **hand** `{{H3027}}` to change the situation.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{H3616}}` is illuminated by several surrounding words that define the scene of judgment:
* `{{H5869}}` **ʻayin** (an eye): This is the organ that physically looks `{{H7200}}` and emotionally **fails** `{{H3616}}`. It can refer to the literal eye or figurative sight and outward appearance [[1 Samuel 16:7]].
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son): The loss of sons, described as the builders of the family name, is a central part of the curse that leads to this pining [[Deuteronomy 4:9]].
* `{{H1323}}` **bath** (a daughter): Mentioned alongside sons, their being given away compounds the sorrow, representing the loss of the family's future [[Joel 2:28]].
* `{{H410}}` **ʼêl** (might): The verse concludes by noting the absence of **might** or power, emphasizing the complete helplessness that accompanies the state of failing with longing [[Deuteronomy 28:32]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3616}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful use within the covenant curses.
* **Consequence of Disobedience:** The word vividly illustrates the profound personal anguish that results from national disobedience. It portrays a specific aspect of the curses promised for turning away from God's commandments [[Deuteronomy 28:32]].
* **State of Hopelessness:** To **fail** `{{H3616}}` with longing describes a state beyond simple sadness; it is a pining characterized by utter helplessness, reinforced by the declaration that there would be no **might** `{{H410}}` in their **hand** `{{H3027}}`.
* **Loss of Future:** The context is the loss of one's **sons** `{{H1121}}` and **daughters** `{{H1323}}` to another people. This signifies the destruction of family continuity and covenantal promise, a devastating judgment.
### Summary
In summary, **kâleh** `{{H3616}}` is a highly specific term whose entire meaning is drawn from its singular context. It encapsulates more than a simple failure; it signifies a deep, pining sorrow born from profound loss and utter powerlessness. This word serves as a stark and memorable depiction of the agonizing consequences of covenantal disobedience as laid out in scripture.
TRV