usually assigned as a primitive root, but probably only a special application of כָּרָה (through the common idea of planning implied in a bargain); to purchase; buy, prepare.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **kârâh**, represented by `{{H3739}}`, carries the dual meaning of **to purchase; buy, prepare**. It appears **4 times** in **4 unique verses**, indicating a specific and focused usage. The definition suggests it is a special application of a root word, connecting the idea of planning, as in a bargain, with the actions of either purchasing goods or preparing provisions.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H3739}}` is used in contexts of both literal transactions and hospitable preparations. It appears in the instruction for Israel to **buy** water for money [[Deuteronomy 2:6]] and in Hosea's redemptive act where he **bought** an unfaithful woman [[Hosea 3:2]]. In a different context, the word is used when Elisha **prepared** great provision for the Syrian army, an act of mercy that ended their raids [[2 Kings 6:23]]. It is also used rhetorically in Job, questioning if companions could **make a banquet** of the Leviathan [[Job 41:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the contexts of purchasing and preparation:
* `{{H3740}}` **kêrâh** (a purchase; provision): This noun form is directly derived from `{{H3739}}` and is used alongside it to describe the "great **provision**" that was prepared for the Syrian army [[2 Kings 6:23]].
* `{{H7666}}` **shâbar** (to deal in grain; buy, sell): This verb is used in parallel with `{{H3739}}` in the command for Israel to **buy** meat and water, highlighting a common transactional context [[Deuteronomy 2:6]].
* `{{H3701}}` **keçeph** (silver... money): This word for money is the medium of exchange in the verses where `{{H3739}}` means "to buy," such as purchasing water [[Deuteronomy 2:6]] or a person [[Hosea 3:2]].
### Theological Significance
The applications of `{{H3739}}` carry significant conceptual weight:
* **Redemptive Purchase:** The most profound use is in Hosea, where the prophet is commanded to **buy** an unfaithful woman. This act serves as a living parable of God's costly, redemptive love for His unfaithful people, Israel, paying a price in **silver** to bring her back [[Hosea 3:2]].
* **Merciful Provision:** In 2 Kings, the word shifts from purchase to preparation. By preparing **great provision** for captured enemies, Elisha demonstrates a radical act of mercy that overcomes hostility and leads to peace, showing that providing for an enemy can be more powerful than destroying them [[2 Kings 6:23]].
* **Just Transactions:** The command in Deuteronomy for Israel to **buy** food and water from the people of Edom establishes a principle of righteous dealing. Rather than taking resources by force, they were to engage in fair purchase, respecting the property of others [[Deuteronomy 2:6]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3739}}` **kârâh** is a specific term that encompasses the planned acts of both purchasing and preparing. Though it appears only four times, its usage is potent, illustrating concepts from simple, everyday transactions [[Deuteronomy 2:6]] to profound theological truths. It demonstrates how a single act of buying can symbolize divine redemption [[Hosea 3:2]] and how an act of preparing a meal can be an instrument of peace and mercy [[2 Kings 6:23]].
TRV