### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **çâlâʼ**, represented by `{{H5537}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to suspend in a balance, i.e. weigh; compare**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, where it is used to draw a sharp contrast between an object of great value and one of commonness.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole biblical appearance of `{{H5537}}` is in a poignant lament for Jerusalem's tragic fall. In [[Lamentations 4:2]], the "precious sons of Zion" are described as being **comparable** to "fine gold" `{{H6337}}`, establishing their immense worth. This high valuation is immediately contrasted with their current state, where they are "esteemed as earthen pitchers, the work of the hands of the potter," illustrating a devastating loss of honor and status.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its only context help frame the concept of valuation and comparison:
* `{{H3368}}` **yâqâr** (precious): This term, meaning "valuable... costly, excellent," establishes the high worth of the "sons of Zion" [[Lamentations 4:2]]. It is also used to describe God's "excellent lovingkindness" [[Psalms 36:7]] and a "precious corner stone" laid in Zion [[Isaiah 28:16]].
* `{{H2803}}` **châshab** (esteemed): Meaning "to think, regard, value, compute," this word defines how the sons of Zion are perceived after their fall. It can signify a miscalculation of worth, as in [[Isaiah 53:3]], where the servant of God was despised and "we esteemed him not."
* `{{H2789}}` **cheres** (earthen): As "a piece of pottery; earth(-en), (pot-) sherd," this term represents the low-value object in the comparison. It conveys fragility and commonness, as seen when the Lord promises to break a vessel "as the breaking of the potters' vessel" [[Isaiah 30:14]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5537}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful use, highlighting key themes of value:
* **A Standard of Divine Value:** The word is used to measure human worth against a pure standard, "fine gold" `{{H6337}}`, reminding that true value is measured against a divine benchmark of purity and worth [[Lamentations 4:2]].
* **The Tragedy of Devaluation:** Its primary context is to express grief over how the "sons of Zion" `{{H1121}}`, once held in high regard, have been devalued to the level of common "earthen pitchers" `{{H2789}}`, signifying a fall from a place of spiritual honor [[Lamentations 4:2]].
* **Perception Versus Inherent Worth:** In conjunction with "esteemed" `{{H2803}}`, the act of being "comparable" `{{H5537}}` points to a shift in perception. While the people's inherent value was like gold, they were re-evaluated and treated as worthless, a theme echoed in the rejection of God's servant [[Isaiah 53:3]].
### Summary
In summary, though appearing just once, `{{H5537}}` **çâlâʼ** provides a potent metaphor for weighing value. Its use in [[Lamentations 4:2]] captures a moment of profound spiritual crisis by comparing the honored "sons of Zion" to "fine gold," only to lament that they are now regarded as disposable "earthen pitchers." It powerfully illustrates the tragic contrast between God-given worth and perceived human fallenness.
TRV