a primitive root; probably to leap (with joy), i.e. exult; harden self.
Transliteration:çâlad
Pronunciation:saw-lad'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew root H5539 (çâlad) presents a fascinating and somewhat paradoxical semantic range. Its base definition suggests two primary, seemingly disparate meanings: "to leap (with joy), i.e., exult" and "to harden oneself." This duality invites careful consideration. The notion of "leaping" or "exulting" implies an outward, dynamic expression of intense emotion, typically joy or triumph. This could be a physical manifestation of inner delight. Conversely, "to harden oneself" suggests an inward, static resolve, a stiffening or firming against external pressures, often associated with pain or adversity.
The challenge lies in reconciling these two poles. One possibility is that the root conveys a sense of intense, decisive action or state, whether that be an outward burst of emotion or an inward, unyielding posture. It could describe a profound commitment or reaction that is unshakeable. Given its rare occurrence in the biblical text, discerning the precise nuances requires a deep dive into its singular context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The root H5539 (çâlad) appears only once in the Masoretic Text, in [[Job 6:10]]. This singular occurrence makes its interpretation crucial and often debated among scholars.
The verse reads: "Then should I yet have comfort; yea, I would harden myself in sorrow: let him not spare; for I have not concealed the words of the Holy One." (KJV)
Other translations offer different interpretations for the term:
* ESV: "This would be my comfort: I would even exult in pain unsparing, for I have not denied the words of the Holy One."
* NIV: "Then I would still have this consolation—my joy in unrelenting pain—that I had not denied the words of the Holy One."
The interpretive divergence in translations highlights the ambiguity inherent in H5539 within this context.
* The KJV's "harden myself in sorrow" aligns with the "harden self" aspect of the base definition. In this reading, Job expresses a defiant resolve or an unyielding steadfastness in the face of his immense suffering. It suggests a determination not to yield or compromise his integrity, even if it means enduring more pain. His "hardening" is not against God, but against the temptation to deny God's words.
* The ESV and NIV, reflecting a different understanding, translate the term as "exult" or "my joy" in pain. This interpretation leans into the "leap (with joy)" aspect. If Job is "exulting" in his pain, it is a paradoxical and profound statement of faith. It would imply that his comfort and even joy derive from his unwavering faithfulness to God's words, even amidst the most severe trials. This "exultation" is not *in* the suffering itself, but *in* his integrity and adherence to the divine word, which remains his ultimate consolation.
The Septuagint (LXX) for [[Job 6:10]] uses the Greek word ἐπαιρόμενος (epairomenos), meaning "lifted up" or "exalted," which generally supports the "exult" or "rejoice" interpretation.
Ultimately, both interpretations point to Job's remarkable integrity and resilience. Whether he is hardening himself with resolve or finding paradoxical joy, his statement underscores his commitment to God's word despite his agony. The rare usage of H5539 in this pivotal verse thus encapsulates the profound depth of Job's character and his unwavering faithfulness.
### Related Words & Concepts
Given the dual nature of H5539, it relates to different semantic fields:
For the meaning "to leap/exult":
* `{{H1523}}` (gîl): To rejoice, be glad. Often used for expressions of joy and triumph.
* `{{H7442}}` (rânan): To shout for joy, to sing aloud. Implies a vocal expression of jubilation.
* `{{H8055}}` (sâmaḥ): To rejoice, be glad. A general term for happiness and delight.
These words often describe a positive, outward emotional state. If H5539 means "exult," it aligns with this category, but with a unique nuance of exulting *in* or *through* suffering.
For the meaning "to harden oneself":
* `{{H2388}}` (ḥâzaq): To be strong, firm, hard. Can refer to physical strength or mental resolve. Often used for strengthening oneself or others.
* `{{H7185}}` (qâshâh): To be hard, difficult, severe. Frequently used in the context of hardening the heart (e.g., Pharaoh's heart).
* `{{H3513}}` (kâbad): To be heavy, weighty, glorious. Can also mean to be hard or dull, especially in the context of a "heavy heart" or "hardened heart."
These words describe a state of firmness, resistance, or inflexibility. If H5539 means "harden oneself," it connects to the theme of steadfastness and endurance in the face of adversity, potentially even defiance against overwhelming odds. The specific nuance in Job is a hardening *in* sorrow, which suggests enduring it with unyielding integrity.
The unique aspect of H5539 is its potential to bridge these two seemingly disparate concepts within a single root, suggesting that profound resolve (hardening) can paradoxically lead to a form of spiritual exultation, particularly when rooted in unwavering faithfulness.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of H5539 is deeply intertwined with the book of Job and the broader biblical understanding of suffering and faithfulness. Regardless of whether one interprets it as "hardening oneself" or "exulting," the verse profoundly speaks to Job's unwavering integrity in the face of unimaginable pain.
If "to harden oneself" is emphasized, it highlights:
* **Human Resolve:** Job's determination not to succumb to despair or to deny God, even when God seems to be his adversary. This speaks to the strength of human will when anchored in divine truth.
* **Faithful Endurance:** It portrays a steadfastness that refuses to waver, a resilience that endures suffering without compromising one's core beliefs or relationship with God. This is not a hardening against God, but a hardening *for* God and His word.
If "to exult in pain" is emphasized, it reveals:
* **Paradoxical Joy:** A profound spiritual state where comfort and a form of joy can be found not in the absence of suffering, but precisely within it, because of an unshakeable commitment to God's word. This foreshadows New Testament concepts of rejoicing in trials (e.g., [[Romans 5:3]], [[James 1:2]]).
* **Integrity as Consolation:** Job's ultimate consolation is not relief from pain, but the integrity of his heart and his fidelity to God's revelation. This elevates faithfulness to a primary source of spiritual sustenance.
In either interpretation, H5539 in [[Job 6:10]] underscores the theme of steadfastness. Job's response to suffering is not one of rebellion or despair, but of unwavering commitment to the "words of the Holy One." It challenges simplistic views of suffering and offers a complex portrait of faith that finds its ground in divine truth, even when all human comfort is stripped away. It points to a deep, internal fortitude that allows the faithful to navigate profound trials without abandoning their core convictions.
### Summary
The Hebrew root H5539 (çâlad) is a rare and enigmatic term, appearing only once in the biblical text at [[Job 6:10]]. Its base definition offers a striking semantic duality: "to leap (with joy), i.e., exult" and "to harden oneself." This ambiguity is reflected in various English translations of Job's profound statement.
In its singular biblical context, H5539 describes Job's response to his immense suffering. Whether interpreted as "hardening himself in sorrow" (implying unyielding resolve and steadfastness) or "exulting in pain" (suggesting a paradoxical joy rooted in unwavering integrity), the word encapsulates Job's remarkable faithfulness. It speaks to a deep inner fortitude that allows one to maintain allegiance to "the words of the Holy One" even amidst the most severe trials. Thus, H5539 contributes significantly to the theological understanding of endurance, integrity, and the complex nature of faith in the face of suffering, highlighting Job's exemplary commitment to God.
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