### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **bâchal**, represented by `{{H973}}`, is a primitive root. It carries a dual meaning: to **loath** or **abhor**, but also to **get hastily**. It appears **2 times** in **2 unique verses**, highlighting its specific and rare usage in the scriptures.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its two appearances, `{{H973}}` is used to convey two distinct concepts. In Proverbs, it describes the acquisition of "An inheritance... **gotten hastily** at the beginning" [[Proverbs 20:21]]. Conversely, in Zechariah, it illustrates a deep-seated emotional rejection, where the prophet speaks of a fractured relationship: "...and their soul also **abhorred** me" [[Zechariah 11:8]]. These examples demonstrate the word's application to both tangible actions and intense feelings.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide contrast and context to the meanings of `{{H973}}`:
* `{{H1288}}` **bârak**: This word means **to bless**. It stands in direct contrast to the outcome of hasty actions described in [[Proverbs 20:21]], where an inheritance gotten hastily "shall not be **blessed**".
* `{{H7114}}` **qâtsar**: This primitive root means **to dock off, i.e. curtail**, and can also mean to **lothe**. It is used in parallel with `{{H973}}` in [[Zechariah 11:8]], where the prophet's soul first **lothed** the shepherds before their soul abhorred him, showing a mutual rejection.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H973}}` is revealed in its two distinct contexts:
* **The Principle of Process:** In [[Proverbs 20:21]], the act of getting something **hastily** `{{H973}}` is set against a final state of not being **blessed** `{{H1288}}`. This establishes a moral and spiritual principle that improperly or impatiently acquired gains lack divine favor in the end.
* **Covenantal Rejection:** The use in [[Zechariah 11:8]], where the Lord's representative and the unfaithful shepherds mutually **abhor** `{{H973}}` and **lothe** `{{H7114}}` one another, signifies a complete breakdown of a covenant relationship. It illustrates the profound nature of spiritual alienation and the consequences of unfaithfulness.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H973}}` **bâchal**, though appearing only twice, provides powerful insight. It illustrates both the negative outcome of impatient, worldly gain and the emotional depth of spiritual rejection. Through its usage, the word underscores key biblical themes: the value of divinely blessed process over haste, and the severe consequences that arise when a covenant relationship between God and his people is broken.
TRV