### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **çâlâh**, represented by `{{H5541}}`, is a primitive root with a dual meaning. It can signify the act of weighing something to determine its worth, and by extension, to **value** it. Figuratively, it can also mean to contemn or **tread down** under foot. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible, highlighting its specific and impactful usage.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In Scripture, `{{H5541}}` is used to convey two distinct concepts. In the book of Job, it is used in the context of valuation. Wisdom cannot be **valued** with the gold `{{H3800}}` of Ophir `{{H211}}` or other precious gems like the onyx `{{H7718}}`, sapphire `{{H5601}}`, or topaz `{{H6357}}` ([[Job 28:16]], [[Job 28:19]]). This usage emphasizes that some things are beyond material price. Conversely, the word is used to depict complete rejection and judgment. The Lord has **trodden under foot** the mighty men of Judah [[Lamentations 1:15]], and He has **trodden down** all who err `{{H7686}}` from His statutes `{{H2706}}` [[Psalms 119:118]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the contexts in which `{{H5541}}` is used:
* `{{H1869}}` **dârak** (to tread; by implication, to walk): This word is used alongside `{{H5541}}` to describe the physical act of judgment, as when the Lord has **trodden** the daughter of Judah in a winepress [[Lamentations 1:15]].
* `{{H3368}}` **yâqâr** (valuable... precious): This term appears in the discussion of things that cannot be compared to wisdom, such as **precious** onyx [[Job 28:16]], reinforcing the theme of immeasurable worth.
* `{{H7686}}` **shâgâh** (to stray... err): This word describes the moral failure that leads to being "trodden down" by God. It is applied to those who **err** from His statutes [[Psalms 119:118]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5541}}` is seen in its application to divine action and ultimate worth.
* **Divine Judgment:** The word is used to portray God's active judgment against sin. He is the one who **trodden down** those who err `{{H7686}}` from His statutes `{{H2706}}` [[Psalms 119:118]]. This is not a passive disregard but a deliberate act of contempt for falsehood `{{H8267}}` and rebellion, as when the Lord `{{H136}}` **trodden under foot** Judah’s mighty men `{{H47}}` [[Lamentations 1:15]].
* **Incomparable Worth:** In contrast, the word is used to establish the supreme value of wisdom. By stating that wisdom cannot be **valued** `{{H5541}}` with earthly treasures like the gold `{{H3800}}` of Ophir `{{H211}}` or precious `{{H3368}}` stones, Scripture places divine wisdom in a category of its own, far above any material standard ([[Job 28:16]], [[Job 28:19]]).
* **Sovereign Contempt and Esteem:** Ultimately, `{{H5541}}` illustrates God's sovereign authority to both esteem and contemn. He alone sets the standard for what is truly **precious** `{{H3368}}` and what is to be trodden down as worthless.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5541}}` **çâlâh** is a potent word that encapsulates the dual concepts of valuation and condemnation. Though rare in scripture, its usage is profound, illustrating God's absolute power to either **tread down** those who oppose His law or to establish the immeasurable **value** of things like wisdom, which surpasses all earthly riches. It demonstrates how a single term can convey both the highest esteem and the most complete rejection.
TRV