probably a denominative from שַׂכִּין; properly, to cut, i.e. damage; also to grow (causatively, make) poor; endanger, impoverish.
Transliteration:çâkan
Pronunciation:saw-kan'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew verb H5533 (סָכַן, çâkan) is understood primarily as a denominative verb derived from `{{H7916}}` (שַׂכִּין, sakkin), meaning "knife." This etymological root immediately suggests a core meaning related to "cutting" or "piercing," which then extends to "damaging" or "injuring." From this foundational sense of causing harm, the semantic range expands to encompass the concepts of "to endanger" or "to put in peril." Furthermore, the definition includes the sense of "to grow poor" or, in a causative Hiphil sense, "to make poor" or "to impoverish." Thus, çâkan encapsulates both the notion of physical harm or risk and the potential for economic or social decline, often as a consequence of damage or neglect.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb H5533 (סָכַן, çâkan) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in Ecclesiastes 10:9. In this sole occurrence, the verb is found in the Hiphil stem, which denotes causation. The verse reads: "Whoever quarries stones may be injured by them; whoever cuts logs may be endangered by them" ([[Ecclesiastes 10:9]]). Here, çâkan is translated as "endanger" or "put in peril." The context is wisdom literature, specifically a passage that reflects on the inherent risks and dangers associated with various human labors. The Preacher observes that certain occupations, such as quarrying stones or cutting wood, naturally expose individuals to physical harm. The use of çâkan highlights the pragmatic acknowledgment that even necessary and productive work carries an element of risk, underscoring the fragility of human existence and the need for prudence. This singular usage emphasizes the verb's primary association with physical peril and the consequences of engaging in potentially hazardous activities.
### Related Words & Concepts
As a denominative verb, H5533 (סָכַן, çâkan) is directly related to its noun root, `{{H7916}}` (שַׂכִּין, sakkin), "knife," which underscores its original connection to cutting and inflicting damage. Conceptually, çâkan intersects with several other Hebrew terms related to harm, danger, and affliction. Words such as `{{H7451}}` (רָעָה, ra'ah), meaning "evil" or "harm," and `{{H5143}}` (נֶזֶק, nezek), meaning "damage" or "injury," share a semantic field with çâkan in its sense of causing detriment. While çâkan itself is not directly attested in the verbal sense of "to impoverish" in the biblical text, its inclusion in the Strong's definition suggests a conceptual link to words denoting poverty or destitution, such as `{{H1800}}` (דָּל, dal), "poor," `{{H6041}}` (עָנִי, ani), "afflicted/poor," or `{{H4134}}` (מָךְ, mak), "poor/low." This broader semantic range, though only partially evidenced in scripture, points to the potential for çâkan to describe not only physical harm but also the process of falling into a state of disadvantage or ruin.
### Theological Significance
The singular appearance of H5533 (סָכַן, çâkan) in Ecclesiastes 10:9 carries significant theological weight within the framework of biblical wisdom. It serves as a stark reminder of the realities of a fallen world, where even diligent labor can lead to injury or peril. This aligns with the broader biblical theme that life under the sun is fraught with challenges and uncertainties, a key message of Ecclesiastes. The verb implicitly calls for wisdom and prudence in human endeavors, acknowledging that while God sustains, human actions and the inherent nature of the physical world expose individuals to risk. It underscores the principle that actions have consequences, and that a lack of discernment or foresight can lead to self-inflicted harm or danger. While not directly addressing sin, çâkan contributes to the biblical understanding of human vulnerability and the need for reliance on divine wisdom in navigating a world where peril is an ever-present possibility.
### Summary
The Hebrew verb H5533 (סָכַן, çâkan), rooted in the concept of "cutting" or "damaging," primarily conveys the meaning "to endanger" or "to put in peril." Its sole biblical occurrence in [[Ecclesiastes 10:9]] illustrates this sense, highlighting the inherent risks associated with human labor and the potential for self-inflicted harm. While its semantic range extends to "impoverish," this aspect is less directly attested in scripture. Çâkan serves as a poignant reminder within wisdom literature of the practical realities of life's dangers and the necessity of prudence. It underscores the fragility of human existence and the consequences, both physical and potentially socio-economic, that can arise from action or inaction in a world where peril is a constant companion.
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