### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **çarʻappâh**, represented by `{{H5634}}`, refers to a **twig** or **bough**. It is a very rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, highlighting its specific and limited application. Its meaning is derived from a root suggesting a twig.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The singular use of `{{H5634}}` occurs in the prophecy of Ezekiel. In a symbolic description of a great cedar representing the Assyrian [[Ezekiel 31:3]], the word is used to illustrate immense growth and power. The verse states that "his **boughs** were multiplied" [[Ezekiel 31:5]], linking the term directly to the tree's flourishing state, which was nourished by an abundance of water. This context places **çarʻappâh** alongside other descriptive words for a magnificent tree, such as its "height" `{{H6967}}` and "branches" `{{H6288}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller picture of the botanical imagery used in scripture:
* `{{H6086}}` **ʻêts** (tree): This is the general term for a **tree** or wood. In the primary verse, the greatness of the symbolic cedar is measured against "all the **trees** of the field" [[Ezekiel 31:5]].
* `{{H6288}}` **pᵉʼôrâh** (bough, branch, sprig): Used for foliage or limbs, often described as ornamentation. In the same verse where `{{H5634}}` is found, it is said that the tree's "**branches** became long" [[Ezekiel 31:5]], emphasizing its extensive reach.
* `{{H6967}}` **qôwmâh** (height, stature): This word refers to physical **height** or **stature**. It is used to establish the impressive size of the symbolic tree, whose "**height** was exalted above all the trees of the field" [[Ezekiel 31:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5634}}` is derived entirely from its symbolic context in Ezekiel.
* **Symbol of Divine Blessing and National Power:** The multiplication of **boughs** `{{H5634}}` is a direct result of being nourished by "the multitude of waters" [[Ezekiel 31:5]]. This imagery represents a nation's flourishing and expansion under divine provision.
* **Warning Against Pride:** The magnificent tree, with its many **boughs**, becomes a symbol of arrogance. The prophecy uses this imagery to warn that the "high ones of stature shall be hewn down" [[Isaiah 10:33]] and that exalted trees should not "exalt themselves for their height" [[Ezekiel 31:14]].
* **Foundation for Judgment:** The detailed description of the tree's impressive **boughs** and branches [[Ezekiel 31:5]] serves to magnify the scale of its eventual downfall, when its "boughs are broken" by strangers [[Ezekiel 31:12]].
### Summary
In summary, **çarʻappâh** `{{H5634}}` is a highly specific term for a **bough** used only once in scripture. Its sole appearance in [[Ezekiel 31:5]] is crucial, where it contributes to the powerful imagery of a magnificent tree representing a great nation. While a simple word for a twig or bough, its context infuses it with significant theological weight, illustrating the themes of divinely-granted prosperity, the danger of national pride, and the inevitability of judgment for those who exalt themselves.
TRV