### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **kâshêr**, represented by `{{H3787}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to be straight or right**. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. By implication, its meaning extends to concepts like being acceptable, succeeding, or prospering, often in the context of practical wisdom and favorable outcomes.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its scriptural occurrences, `{{H3787}}` is applied in distinct practical situations. In Esther's plea to the king, she frames her petition by asking if "the thing seem **right** before the king," connecting the word to royal approval and justice [[Esther 8:5]]. In Ecclesiastes, it is used to convey success in human labor, where a sower does not know which of his efforts will **prosper** [[Ecclesiastes 11:6]]. The word is also used to illustrate the value of wisdom, which is described as being "profitable to **direct**," implying that wisdom provides the right path to a successful outcome [[Ecclesiastes 10:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Two related words help clarify the scope of `{{H3787}}`:
* `{{H3504}}` **yithrôwn** (preeminence, gain; better, excellency(-leth), profit(-able)): This word appears alongside `{{H3787}}` in the proverb about the dull axe, where wisdom is described as **profitable** to **direct** one's efforts [[Ecclesiastes 10:10]]. This links the rightness of `{{H3787}}` with a tangible advantage or gain.
* `{{H2896}}` **ṭôwb** (good (as an adjective) in the widest sense): This term for **good** is closely associated with `{{H3787}}`. In Esther's appeal, her request being seen as **right** is presented alongside it being pleasing and **good** in the king's eyes [[Esther 8:5]]. Similarly, the sower does not know if his work will **prosper** or if the results will be equally **good** [[Ecclesiastes 11:6]].
### Theological Significance
The conceptual significance of `{{H3787}}` centers on practical wisdom and the nature of success.
* **Rightness and Acceptability:** The word establishes a link between what is inherently **right** and what is deemed acceptable by an authority. For Esther, the rightness of her plan was essential for it to gain favor and be approved by the king [[Esther 8:5]].
* **Prosperity and Effort:** In the context of labor, to **prosper** is the desired outcome of diligent work. However, its use in Ecclesiastes suggests that this success is not guaranteed by effort alone, pointing to factors beyond human control [[Ecclesiastes 11:6]].
* **Wisdom and Direction:** The term underscores that wisdom is the key to effective action. Wisdom provides the proper **direction** that leads to a profitable result, distinguishing it from mere unguided strength or effort [[Ecclesiastes 10:10]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3787}}` is a practical term that encompasses a range of meanings from being right and acceptable to prospering and being directed. Though it appears infrequently, its usage in Esther and Ecclesiastes illustrates a consistent theme in biblical wisdom: that which is truly right is also wise, effective, and ultimately leads to a favorable or successful outcome. It bridges the gap between moral correctness and practical success.
TRV