### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **çar**, represented by `{{H5620}}`, is a term for being **peevish, heavy, or sad**. It appears only **3 times** across **3 unique verses**, making it a highly specific descriptor within the biblical text. Its meaning is rooted in a sense of sullen discontent or sorrow.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H5620}}` is used exclusively to describe the emotional state of King Ahab{H256}. It appears alongside **displeased** `{{H2198}}` when he returns to his **house** `{{H1004}}` after being denied his wishes ([[1 Kings 20:43]], [[1 Kings 21:4]]). This heavy sadness is specifically triggered by the **word** `{{H1697}}` spoken by Naboth{H5022} the Jezreelite{H3158}, who refused to **give** `{{H5414}}` Ahab his family's **inheritance** `{{H5159}}`. This emotion was so profound that it caused Ahab to lie on his **bed** `{{H4296}}`, turn his **face** `{{H6440}}` away, and refuse to **eat** `{{H398}}` **bread** `{{H3899}}` [[1 Kings 21:4]]. His wife Jezebel{H348} questioned why his **spirit** `{{H7307}}` was so **sad** `{{H5620}}` that he would not eat [[1 Kings 21:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to frame the context of this peevish sadness:
* `{{H2198}}` **zâʻêph** (displeased): This word is used in direct conjunction with `{{H5620}}` to emphasize Ahab's angry and **displeased** reaction to events ([[1 Kings 20:43]], [[1 Kings 21:4]]).
* `{{H256}}` **ʼAchʼâb** (Ahab): The subject of this emotion in all its biblical occurrences is **Ahab**, the **king** `{{H4428}}` of Israel [[1 Kings 20:43]].
* `{{H7307}}` **rûwach** (spirit): Jezebel attributes Ahab's condition to his **spirit**, highlighting the deep, internal nature of his sadness [[1 Kings 21:5]].
* `{{H3899}}` **lechem** (bread): Ahab's refusal to eat **bread** serves as the primary outward expression of his inner heavy and sad state ([[1 Kings 21:4]], [[1 Kings 21:5]]).
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{H5620}}` carries significant implications within its narrative context:
* **Character Revelation:** The word reveals the petulant character of King Ahab{H256}. Despite his position, he reacts with a heavy, peevish sadness when his desires for Naboth's{H5022} land are denied [[1 Kings 21:4]].
* **Internal State and External Action:** The term demonstrates the powerful link between an internal **spirit** `{{H7307}}` and external behavior. Ahab's inner turmoil manifests as physical withdrawal—lying down on his **bed** `{{H4296}}` and refusing nourishment [[1 Kings 21:4]].
* **Catalyst for Iniquity:** Ahab's heavy and displeased state [[1 Kings 21:4]] creates the opportunity for Jezebel{H348} to intervene, setting in motion the wicked plot against Naboth. The emotion itself becomes a passive gateway to greater sin.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5620}}` is not a general term for sadness but a specific word for a heavy, peevish discontent. Its focused use on King Ahab{H256} paints a portrait of a ruler consumed by sullen resentment when he does not get his way. The word effectively illustrates how a heavy heart can lead to physical inaction and create the conditions for others to enact great evil, as seen in the tragic account of Naboth{H5022} and his inheritance.
TRV