a primitive root (rather identical with קָלָה through the idea of shrinkage by heat); to toast, i.e. scorch partially or slowly; dried, loathsome, parch, roast.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **qâlâh**, represented by `{{H7033}}`, is a primitive root associated with the idea of shrinkage by heat. Its primary meanings are **to toast**, **parch**, or **roast**. In one instance, it is also rendered as **loathsome**. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses**, encompassing both literal and figurative applications.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H7033}}` appears in distinct contexts. In a ritual setting, it describes the preparation of "green ears of corn **dried** by the fire" as a meat offering of firstfruits [[Leviticus 2:14]]. It marks a historical milestone when the Israelites eat "**parched** corn" from the land after celebrating the Passover, ceasing their reliance on manna [[Joshua 5:11]]. The word also carries a sense of severe judgment, as seen in a curse where two men were "**roasted** in the fire" by the king of Babylon [[Jeremiah 29:22]]. Figuratively, it conveys intense suffering, describing loins filled with a "**loathsome** disease" [[Psalms 38:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illuminate the contexts in which `{{H7033}}` is used:
* `{{H784}}` **ʼêsh** (fire): This word is directly linked to the act of roasting in both sacred and punitive contexts, as grain is "dried by the **fire**" [[Leviticus 2:14]] and men are "roasted in the **fire**" [[Jeremiah 29:22]].
* `{{H4503}}` **minchâh** (meat offering): This specifies the purpose of the parched grain in Leviticus, identifying it as a sacrificial **offering** presented to the LORD [[Leviticus 2:14]].
* `{{H7045}}` **qᵉlâlâh** (curse): This word establishes the context for the judgment in Jeremiah, where the act of roasting becomes the basis for a **curse** [[Jeremiah 29:22]].
* `{{H398}}` **ʼâkal** (to eat): This simple verb highlights the significance of the parched corn in Joshua, as the Israelites finally **eat** the produce of the Promised Land [[Joshua 5:11]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7033}}` is demonstrated through its varied applications.
* **Sacred Preparation:** The act of parching grain is sanctified when used to prepare **firstfruits** `{{H1061}}` for a **meat offering** `{{H4503}}`. This elevates a common activity into an act of worship and dedication to God [[Leviticus 2:14]].
* **Divine Judgment:** The word serves as a stark image of punishment. Being **roasted** in the **fire** `{{H784}}` is presented as a horrific fate, forming the substance of a powerful **curse** `{{H7045}}` meant to exemplify utter destruction [[Jeremiah 29:22]].
* **Figurative Suffering:** It is used metaphorically to describe a deep physical or spiritual affliction. The psalmist's loins are **filled** `{{H4390}}` with a **loathsome** disease, likening his suffering to something scorched and corrupted [[Psalms 38:7]].
* **Covenant Fulfillment:** The consumption of **parched** corn signifies a pivotal moment of God's faithfulness. It marks the end of the Israelites' wilderness wandering and their entry into the provision of the Promised Land [[Joshua 5:11]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7033}}` is a versatile word whose meaning shifts dramatically with its context. From the literal act of parching grain for sustenance or sacred offering, it extends to become a powerful symbol of divine judgment and a metaphor for debilitating disease. The word demonstrates how a basic physical process can be imbued with profound theological significance, representing themes of worship, punishment, suffering, and covenant fulfillment.
TRV