### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **çârach**, represented by `{{H5628}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to extend**, often to the point of excess. It appears 7 times in 7 unique verses in the Bible. Its definition encompasses concepts like spreading, stretching oneself, hanging over, or being excessive.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{H5628}}` describes both literal and figurative extension. In a physical sense, it details the construction of the tabernacle, where curtains were to **hang** over its sides ([[Exodus 26:12]], [[Exodus 26:13]]). It is also used to illustrate natural growth, as with a **spreading** vine [[Ezekiel 17:6]]. In a negative context, it portrays the self-indulgent who **stretch** themselves on couches [[Amos 6:4]] or wear **exceeding** attire [[Ezekiel 23:15]]. Figuratively, it can denote something that has been exhausted or lost, as when the wisdom of Edom is said to have **vanished** [[Jeremiah 49:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the various applications of extension and excess:
* `{{H2451}}` **chokmâh** (wisdom): This term appears in the question of whether Edom's **wisdom** has **vanished** `{{H5628}}`, linking the concept of something extending to its limit and disappearing with the loss of prudence [[Jeremiah 49:7]].
* `{{H7901}}` **shâkab** (to lie down): Used in parallel with stretching `{{H5628}}`, this word describes the indulgent posture of those who **lie** on beds of ivory, emphasizing a state of decadent ease [[Amos 6:4]].
* `{{H398}}` **ʼâkal** (to eat): This word is also associated with the self-indulgence in Amos, where those who stretch themselves also **eat** lambs from the flock, illustrating the consumption that accompanies their excess [[Amos 6:4]].
### Theological Significance
The conceptual weight of `{{H5628}}` often lies in the contrast between divinely appointed extension and sinful human excess.
* **Prescribed Boundaries:** In the construction of the tabernacle, the word is used to describe how the curtains must **hang** over the structure. This demonstrates a proper and measured extension, ordained by God for a holy purpose ([[Exodus 26:12]], [[Exodus 26:13]]).
* **Judgment on Excess:** The prophets use `{{H5628}}` to condemn pride and self-indulgence. Those who **stretch** themselves in luxury [[Amos 6:4]] or adorn themselves with **exceeding** attire [[Ezekiel 23:15]] face judgment, with their decadent feasts destined to be removed [[Amos 6:7]].
* **The Transience of Earthly Wisdom:** The word is used metaphorically to describe wisdom that has **vanished** from Edom. This suggests that human wisdom has limits and can be exhausted or taken away, contrasting with the enduring counsel of God [[Jeremiah 49:7]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5628}}` carries a meaning that moves from simple physical extension to a moral and theological critique of excess. It can describe the precise dimensions of a sacred object like the tabernacle's curtains, the natural growth of a vine, or the decadent posture of the self-indulgent. Ultimately, the word **çârach** illustrates a key biblical principle: that while extension and growth can be good, extending beyond proper bounds into prideful excess leads to ruin and removal.
TRV