### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **çârâb**, represented by `{{H5621}}`, is defined as a **thistle** or **brier**, stemming from an unused root that means to sting. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Its sole usage is metaphorical, symbolizing a hostile and painful human element.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical instance of `{{H5621}}` is found in the prophetic call of Ezekiel. God instructs him, "And thou, son of man, be not afraid of them, neither be afraid of their words, though **briers** and thorns be with thee, and thou dost dwell among scorpions" [[Ezekiel 2:6]]. In this context, **çârâb** does not refer to a literal plant but is a figurative description of the people Ezekiel is sent to address. The word portrays them as a source of pain and sharp opposition, reinforcing the description of them as a "rebellious house."
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its immediate context illuminate the meaning of `{{H5621}}`:
* `{{H5544}}` **çillôwn** (brier, thorn): Paired directly with **çârâb**, this word doubles down on the imagery of a painful and prickly environment, emphasizing the wounding nature of the people's opposition [[Ezekiel 2:6]].
* `{{H6137}}` **ʻaqrâb** (scorpion): This term escalates the metaphor from sharp plants to dangerous creatures, characterizing the people as a venomous scourge and highlighting the severity of the threat they pose [[Ezekiel 2:6]].
* `{{H4805}}` **mᵉrîy** (rebellious): This word provides the explicit reason for the hostile imagery. The people are compared to briers and scorpions because they are a "rebellious house," defined by bitterness and opposition to God [[Ezekiel 2:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5621}}` is concentrated in its powerful, singular application.
* **Metaphor for Painful Opposition:** **çârâb** illustrates how human rebellion can manifest as a sharp, wounding force against God's servants. It symbolizes people whose words and attitudes are designed to sting and injure.
* **Mandate for Fearlessness:** The term is embedded in a divine command to "be not afraid" and "nor be dismayed" [[Ezekiel 2:6]]. The existence of **briers** is presented as a certainty, but the primary theological point is the call to prophetic perseverance despite such hostility.
* **The Reality of Difficult Ministry:** By being grouped with thorns and scorpions, **çârâb** helps define the nature of serving God in a fallen world. It indicates that a divine calling may require dwelling among those who are actively and painfully resistant.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5621}}` is far more than a simple botanical term. Its significance is derived entirely from its metaphorical use in [[Ezekiel 2:6]], where it vividly portrays the hurtful and hostile nature of a **rebellious** `{{H4805}}` people. The word serves as a potent illustration of the opposition faced by God's messengers and the divine call to courage in the face of such adversity.
TRV