### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **lâchem**, represented by `{{H3901}}`, means **battle** or **war**. It is derived from the root `לָחַם`. This term is rare, appearing just **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{H3901}}` is in [[Judges 5:8]], where it describes the direct consequence of Israel's actions: "They chose new gods; then was **war** in the gates". This verse powerfully connects the arrival of conflict to the people's choice to turn to idolatry. The passage also highlights Israel's resulting vulnerability, questioning if a **shield** `{{H4043}}` or **spear** `{{H7420}}` was even **seen** `{{H7200}}` among them.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context illuminate the meaning of `{{H3901}}`:
* `{{H977}}` **bâchar** (choose): This act is the catalyst for the **war**. Israel's decision to **choose** new gods is presented as the direct cause of the conflict [[Judges 5:8]], contrasting with the biblical call to **choose** life [[Deuteronomy 30:19]].
* `{{H430}}` **ʼĕlôhîym** (gods): This word for **God** or **gods** is central to the passage. While it most often refers to the supreme God [[Genesis 1:1]], the "new **gods**" chosen by the people are the explicit reason **war** `{{H3901}}` ensued [[Judges 5:8]].
* `{{H8179}}` **shaʻar** (gate): The location of the **war**, "in the **gates**," signifies a conflict that has penetrated the heart of the community's security and civil life. The **gates** are a place of entry and strength, so war there indicates a deep societal crisis [[Judges 5:8]], a stark contrast to entering God's **gates** with thanksgiving [[Psalms 100:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3901}}` is concentrated in its single usage.
* **Idolatry as a Catalyst for War:** The appearance of `{{H3901}}` establishes a direct theological link between turning from God and the outbreak of conflict. The decision to **choose** `{{H977}}` new **gods** `{{H430}}` is immediately followed by **war** [[Judges 5:8]].
* **Consequence of Disobedience:** The state of **war** is depicted as one of utter vulnerability. The passage explicitly notes the absence of basic defensive weapons like a **shield** `{{H4043}}` or **spear** `{{H7420}}`, illustrating that abandoning God results in a loss of protection [[Judges 5:8]].
* **Conflict at the Community's Core:** The **war** is specified as being "in the **gates**" `{{H8179}}`. This highlights that the consequences of sin are not distant but strike at the very center of civic life, order, and safety.
### Summary
In summary, **lâchem** `{{H3901}}` encapsulates the concept of **war** as a direct consequence of spiritual rebellion. Though used only once, its context in [[Judges 5:8]] provides a powerful and concise theological lesson: the choice to abandon God for other gods leads directly to conflict and leaves a people vulnerable and defenseless at the very heart of their society.
TRV