from an unused root meaning to be new; fresh, i.e. unused or undried; green, moist.
Transliteration:lach
Pronunciation:lakh
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word H3892, *lach*, derives from an unused root meaning "to be new." Its core semantic range encompasses states of freshness, moisture, and greenness. It describes something that is undried, unspent, and full of natural vitality. This can refer to wood that is still full of sap, vegetation that is vibrant and flourishing, or even grapes that are newly picked and moist. The underlying concept is one of newness and unexhausted potential, standing in direct contrast to dryness, decay, or depletion. It conveys a sense of inherent strength and uncompromised integrity due to its fresh state.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term *lach* appears in several significant biblical contexts, each illuminating a facet of its meaning:
* In [[Judges 16:7]] and [[Judges 16:8]], Samson describes how he can be bound if tied with "seven fresh bowstrings that have not been dried." Here, *lach* emphasizes the pliability and inherent strength of the new, undried material, which would be difficult to break. It speaks to the integrity and uncompromised state of something in its natural, fresh condition.
* [[Numbers 6:3]] uses *lach* to describe "fresh grapes" (*anavim lach*). As part of the Nazirite vow, individuals were to abstain from anything produced by the grapevine, including fresh grapes. This usage highlights the natural, unadulterated state of the fruit, emphasizing purity and adherence to the vow's strictures.
* Perhaps the most profound usage is found in [[Ezekiel 17:24]]: "And all the trees of the field shall know that I the LORD bring down the high tree, exalt the low tree, dry up the green tree, and make the dry tree flourish." Here, *lach* refers to the "green tree," serving as a powerful metaphor for spiritual vitality, prosperity, and divine favor. Its juxtaposition with the "dry tree" (`{{H3001}}`, *yabesh*) creates a stark contrast between life and death, blessing and judgment. God's sovereign power is demonstrated in His ability to reverse these states, illustrating His control over the spiritual flourishing or desolation of nations and individuals.
* In [[Job 8:16]], Bildad describes the wicked as one who "is green before the sun, and his branch shoots forth in his garden." While appearing outwardly *lach* (green/flourishing), this prosperity is depicted as temporary and superficial, lacking true depth or lasting root. It suggests a fleeting vitality that is vulnerable to the elements, contrasting with enduring righteousness.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of *lach* intersects with several other Hebrew words and concepts:
* **`{{H7491}}` *ra'anan***: Often translated as "flourishing" or "green," particularly in reference to trees. Like *lach*, it conveys a sense of vitality, prosperity, and divine blessing (e.g., [[Psalm 52:8]], [[Psalm 92:14]]). While *lach* emphasizes the internal moisture and freshness, *ra'anan* focuses more on the outward manifestation of flourishing.
* **`{{H2416}}` *chay***: "Living" or "alive." This word describes the state of being animate and full of life, which inherently includes the idea of being "not dry" or "not dead."
* **`{{H6287}}` *pârach***: "To bud, blossom, break forth." This verb describes the process of new growth and flourishing, which is a natural outcome of something being *lach* or vital.
* **`{{H3001}}` *yabesh***: "Dry, withered." This is the direct antonym of *lach* and is frequently used in parallel or antithetical constructions, particularly in prophetic literature, to denote spiritual barrenness, judgment, or death (e.g., [[Ezekiel 17:24]], [[Psalm 102:4]]).
* **Concepts**: Vitality, newness, unspent strength, purity, divine blessing, temporary prosperity, spiritual flourishing, and the stark contrast between life and decay.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of *lach* is multifaceted. Primarily, it serves as a powerful symbol of **vitality, life, and divine sustenance**. The "green tree" in Ezekiel is a profound metaphor for a nation or individual enjoying God's favor and spiritual flourishing. Its opposite, the "dry tree," signifies divine judgment and spiritual desolation. This imagery underscores the belief that true life and prosperity come from God.
Furthermore, *lach* can represent **inherent strength and integrity**, as seen in the Samson narrative. Something that is fresh and undried possesses a natural resilience that has not been compromised by time or hardship. In the context of the Nazirite vow, "fresh grapes" highlight the emphasis on **purity and the natural state** before God.
The usage in Job, where the wicked are "green before the sun," introduces a nuance: while *lach* can signify genuine vitality, it can also describe a **superficial or temporary prosperity** that lacks true spiritual roots and is ultimately fleeting. This serves as a cautionary reminder that outward appearance does not always reflect inner reality or enduring blessing. Ultimately, *lach* points to the source of all true and lasting life, which is found in God's sustaining power and His covenant faithfulness.
### Summary
The Hebrew word H3892, *lach*, fundamentally signifies a state of freshness, moisture, and greenness, rooted in the concept of "newness" or "vitality." It describes something undried, unspent, and full of natural sap or life. Biblically, *lach* is used to convey the inherent strength of uncompromised material (Samson), the natural purity of fresh produce (Nazirite vow), and most significantly, as a metaphor for spiritual vitality and divine favor (the "green tree" in Ezekiel). Conversely, it can also denote a fleeting, superficial prosperity that lacks true spiritual depth (Job). The word stands in stark contrast to dryness and decay, serving as a powerful symbol of life, divine sustenance, and the consequences of spiritual flourishing or desolation.
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