### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shâchar**, represented by `{{H7835}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to be dim or dark (in color); be black**. Derived from the idea of the duskiness of early dawn, it appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, where it conveys a state of being darkened.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H7835}}` occurs in the book of Job, where Job describes his extreme physical suffering. In his lament, he cries out, "My skin is **black** upon me, and my bones are burned with heat" [[Job 30:30]]. Here, the word is not used poetically for sorrow but as a literal description of his skin's appearance, discolored and ravaged by his severe ailment. It paints a visceral picture of his body's decay under intense affliction.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{H7835}}` in [[Job 30:30]] is enriched by the words surrounding it, which together describe a body consumed by sickness:
* `{{H5785}}` **ʻôwr** (skin): This is the part of Job's body that has turned **black**. The term refers to skin, hide, or leather.
* `{{H6106}}` **ʻetsem** (bone): Job's suffering is not just skin deep; his very bones are afflicted. This word signifies bone, body, or the selfsame substance of a person.
* `{{H2787}}` **chârar** (burn): This word describes what is happening to his bones, meaning to glow, burn, or dry up. It points to a consuming internal fever.
* `{{H2721}}` **chôreb** (heat): This is the cause of the burning. It denotes drought, desolation, or heat.
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H7835}}` is tied directly to its singular, powerful context in illustrating the depths of human suffering.
* **A Visual of Affliction:** The word provides a stark visual for Job's torment. His skin turning **black** is a physical manifestation of an illness so severe it darkens his flesh.
* **Connection to Fire and Fever:** Its usage in [[Job 30:30]] directly links the blackness to an intense internal "heat" `{{H2721}}` that "burned" `{{H2787}}` his bones, suggesting a condition akin to a destructive fever.
* **Embodiment of Decay:** By describing the skin as **black**, the word emphasizes a state of physical decomposition and devastation, powerfully conveying Job's profound suffering and proximity to death.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7835}}` is a highly specific and rare term. Its single appearance in the Bible gives a literal and graphic depiction of physical anguish. Rather than carrying broad theological weight, its importance lies in its ability to vividly portray the extremity of Job's condition in [[Job 30:30]], where his skin is described as **black** from a consuming sickness. It serves as a potent testament to the physical horror of his trial.
TRV