### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **qêrêach**, represented by `{{H7142}}`, is defined as **bald (on the back of the head)** or **bald (head)**. It is derived from the root קָרַח and appears only **3 times** across **2 unique verses**, indicating a very specific application within the biblical text. Its meaning is confined to the literal state of being without hair on the head.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical occurrences, `{{H7142}}` is used in two distinct contexts. In Leviticus, the word is part of the legal code concerning cleanliness, stating that a man whose hair has fallen off his head "is **bald**; yet is he clean" [[Leviticus 13:40]]. This establishes natural baldness as a clean condition. In contrast, the term is used as a sharp insult in the narrative of Elisha, where little children from the city mocked him, repeating the phrase, "Go up, thou **bald head**; go up, thou **bald head**" [[2 Kings 2:23]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the meaning and usage of **qêrêach**:
* `{{H4803}}` **mâraṭ** (have his hair (be) fallen off): This is the action that leads to baldness. It is used in [[Leviticus 13:40]] to describe how the hair "is fallen off" the head. The same word can also mean to "pluck off" hair, as seen in [[Ezra 9:3]].
* `{{H7218}}` **rôʼsh** (head): This term identifies the location of baldness. It is used directly in the description, "whose hair is fallen off his **head**" [[Leviticus 13:40]]. Figuratively, it can also mean a chief, captain, or beginning.
* `{{H5288}}` **naʻar** (child, boy, lad): This word identifies the individuals who used baldness as a taunt against Elisha. The mockers in [[2 Kings 2:23]] are described as "little **children**" (`naʻar`).
* `{{H6996}}` **qâṭân** (little, small, young): This adjective describes the children in [[2 Kings 2:23]] as "**little**," emphasizing their youth as they mocked the prophet.
### Theological Significance
While not a deeply theological term, the use of `{{H7142}}` touches on important themes regarding social perception and divine law.
* **Contempt and Ridicule:** The story of Elisha demonstrates how a physical trait can be used as a basis for scorn. The insult "thou **bald head**" was an expression of contempt directed at a prophet of God [[2 Kings 2:23]].
* **Ceremonial Purity:** In contrast, the Levitical law uses the word to make a clear distinction. Natural baldness is not a sign of impurity or disease, and the man is declared "clean" [[Leviticus 13:40]]. This separates a physical state from a spiritual or ritual one.
* **Context of Action:** The taunt in [[2 Kings 2:23]] is accompanied by the repeated command to "Go **up**" `{{H5927}}`, linking the physical insult to a challenge against Elisha's prophetic ascent and authority.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7142}}` is a simple and direct term for a **bald head**. Its limited use in Scripture serves two powerful and contrasting purposes. On one hand, it is a clinical descriptor used in legal texts to define ceremonial cleanliness. On the other, it serves as a potent, derogatory term in a historical narrative, illustrating how a neutral physical characteristic can become a tool for mockery and disrespect.
TRV