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.
Transliteration:kârâh
Pronunciation:kaw-raw'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew verb `{{H3739}}` (כָּרָה, *kârâh*) is primarily defined as "to purchase" or "to buy." The Strong's definition notes an interesting semantic connection, suggesting it is "probably only a special application of כָּרָה (through the common idea of planning implied in a bargain)." This implies a link to the homonymous root `{{H3739}}` which means "to dig" (e.g., digging a well or pit). The common thread, as suggested, lies in the idea of "planning," "preparing," or "arranging." Thus, while its direct meaning in context is commercial acquisition, it carries an underlying nuance of deliberate action, negotiation, or the making of a foundational agreement, much like one "prepares" a site by digging. The semantic range therefore includes:
1. **To purchase/buy:** To acquire goods or services through monetary exchange.
2. **To prepare/arrange:** Implied in the "planning" aspect of a transaction or agreement, rather than physical preparation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Occurrences of `{{H3739}}` meaning "to purchase" are limited but significant. The most prominent example is found in the book of Deuteronomy:
* **[[Deuteronomy 2:6]]**: "Ye shall buy (תִּכְרוּ, *tikhru*) meat of them for money, that ye may eat; and ye shall also buy (תִּכְרוּ, *tikhru*) water of them for money, that ye may drink."
* In this passage, Moses recounts God's instructions to the Israelites as they journeyed through the territory of the Edomites and Moabites. Despite being God's chosen people, they were commanded not to seize provisions by force but to engage in fair commerce, purchasing food and water. This highlights a divine principle of respecting the property and sovereignty of other nations, even those outside the direct covenant. The repeated use of `{{H3739}}` here emphasizes the necessity of a legitimate transaction.
The "prepare" aspect of the definition, as linked to "planning implied in a bargain," is more conceptual and less explicitly rendered in distinct biblical contexts for this specific nuance of `{{H3739}}`. Its primary usage remains "to buy."
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of `{{H3739}}` connects it to several other key Hebrew terms related to acquisition and commerce:
* **`{{H7069}}` (קָנָה, *qānāh*)**: A broader and more frequently used term for "to acquire," "to buy," or "to possess." It can refer to acquiring land, servants, or even God's "acquiring" (creating) His people. While `{{H3739}}` specifically denotes buying with money, `{{H7069}}` has a wider scope of acquisition.
* **`{{H7666}}` (שָׁבַר, *shābar*)**: Specifically means "to buy grain" or "to buy provisions," often seen in the context of famine (e.g., Joseph's brothers buying grain in Egypt).
* **`{{H4376}}` (מָכַר, *mākar*)**: The direct antonym, meaning "to sell." The interplay between buying and selling is fundamental to economic interactions described in the Old Testament.
* **`{{H1285}}` (בְּרִית, *berît*)**: While not a direct synonym, the concept of "covenant" or "agreement" is related. A purchase, as described by `{{H3739}}`, is a form of agreement between parties, involving mutual consent and exchange, echoing the structured nature of covenants.
* **`{{H3739}}` (כָּרָה, *kârâh*) "to dig"**: The Strong's entry itself draws a conceptual bridge to the homonymous root meaning "to dig" (e.g., [[Genesis 26:25]], [[Exodus 21:33]]). This connection suggests that both "digging" and "buying" involve a deliberate, intentional act of making or preparing something—a pit, a well, or a transaction. Both actions require forethought and effort to bring about a desired outcome.
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{H3739}}` to "buy" carries several theological implications:
* **Divine Provision and Human Responsibility**: In [[Deuteronomy 2:6]], God, who miraculously provided manna and water in the wilderness, also instructs His people to engage in normal commerce. This teaches that divine provision can manifest through natural means and human industry, requiring responsible action on the part of the recipients. It underscores a theology where human effort and divine grace often work in concert.
* **Justice and Peace in Relations**: The command to buy rather than take highlights God's expectation of justice and fair dealing, even with non-covenant peoples. It promotes peaceful coexistence and respect for property rights, setting a precedent for ethical economic interaction among nations. This principle stands in contrast to conquest and plunder, emphasizing the sanctity of agreements.
* **Stewardship**: The act of buying requires the use of existing resources (money) to acquire necessities. This implicitly teaches principles of stewardship—the wise management of resources entrusted to individuals or communities. It demonstrates a practical application of living responsibly within God's created order.
* **Intentionality and Purpose**: The underlying connection to "planning" or "preparing" suggests that transactions, and indeed much of life, should be undertaken with intentionality and purpose. God's commands are deliberate, and human obedience, including in economic spheres, should reflect this same thoughtfulness.
### Summary
The Hebrew verb `{{H3739}}` (כָּרָה, *kârâh*) primarily signifies "to purchase" or "to buy," with a nuanced secondary meaning related to "preparing" or "planning" a transaction. Its most prominent biblical appearance in [[Deuteronomy 2:6]] illustrates God's command for Israel to engage in fair commerce, purchasing provisions rather than taking them by force. This usage underscores theological themes of divine provision working through human means, the importance of justice and peaceful relations with neighbors, and the principle of responsible stewardship. The conceptual link to the homonymous root meaning "to dig" further enriches its meaning, suggesting that both "buying" and "digging" involve deliberate, intentional acts of making or arranging, reflecting forethought and purpose in human endeavors under God's sovereignty.
TRV