a primitive root; to enclose; hence (in a friendly sense) to crown, (in a hostile one) to besiege; also to wait (as restraining oneself); beset round, compass about, be crowned inclose round, suffer.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **kâthar**, represented by `{{H3803}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to enclose**. Its application varies dramatically based on context, from a friendly sense, **to crown**, to a hostile one, **to besiege**. It also carries the meaning **to wait**, as in restraining oneself. It appears **7 times** across **6 unique verses** in the Bible, making each usage significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H3803}}` conveys a powerful sense of being surrounded, for better or for worse. In a hostile context, the prophet Habakkuk states that the wicked `{{H7563}}` **compass** about the righteous `{{H6662}}`, perverting justice [[Habakkuk 1:4]]. This idea of a threatening enclosure is also seen in the military defeat of the Benjamites, who were **inclosed** round about [[Judges 20:43]]. In contrast, the word takes on a positive meaning in [[Proverbs 14:18]], where the prudent are **crowned** with knowledge. It can also signify a plea for patience, as when Elihu asks Job to **suffer** him, or wait, a little longer [[Job 36:2]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illuminate the contexts in which `{{H3803}}` is found:
* `{{H1847}}` **daʻath** (knowledge): This is the "crown" with which the prudent are adorned in [[Proverbs 14:18]], representing wisdom as a high honor.
* `{{H5437}}` **çâbab** (compass about): This word is used in parallel with `{{H3803}}` in [[Psalms 22:12]], where the psalmist feels encircled by enemies, showing a synonymous relationship in the context of a siege.
* `{{H6175}}` **ʻârûwm** (prudent): This describes those who receive the "crown" of knowledge. In [[Proverbs 14:18]], the prudent are rewarded for their insight, contrasting with the simple who inherit folly.
* `{{H6662}}` **tsaddîyq** (just; righteous): This term identifies the one being surrounded. The nature of the surrounding depends on who is doing it, whether it is the wicked in an act of oppression [[Habakkuk 1:4]] or fellow righteous in an act of fellowship [[Psalms 142:7]].
### Theological Significance
The conceptual weight of `{{H3803}}` lies in its duality, illustrating how the same physical act of surrounding something can have opposite moral implications.
* **Hostile Encirclement:** The word frequently depicts a state of oppression or attack. This is seen when the wicked **compass** the righteous to obstruct justice [[Habakkuk 1:4]] and when enemies **beset** the psalmist like strong bulls [[Psalms 22:12]].
* **A Crown of Virtue:** In a positive sense, the word signifies honor and reward. Being **crowned** with knowledge `{{H1847}}` is presented as the culmination of a prudent life, a visible mark of wisdom [[Proverbs 14:18]].
* **Fellowship and Deliverance:** The word can also describe a supportive community. In [[Psalms 142:7]], the psalmist anticipates that after being brought out of his prison, the righteous `{{H6662}}` will **compass** him about, signifying a welcoming and protective circle.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3803}}` is a dynamic word whose meaning is defined by intent. Whether it describes a hostile siege, a crown of honor, or a circle of friends, **kâthar** consistently portrays a state of being completely enclosed. Its varied applications demonstrate that the nature of an action—friendly or hostile—is determined by the character of those performing it.
TRV