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χάραξ (charax)

charax

barricade

G5482 · Greek · New Testament · 1 verses

Quick Reference

Language
Koine Greek
Testament
New Testament
Occurrences
1 verses
Root
—

Word Overview

The noun charax refers to a pointed stake or a fortified rampart used in ancient warfare. Its root relates to sharpening, highlighting the physical construction of defensive structures made from sharpened wooden pales and earthworks. In the New Testament, it appears only once, in Luke 19:43.

Here, Jesus uses the image to predict the destruction of Jerusalem. He describes how enemies will surround the city with a charax, effectively building a siege wall that leaves no escape. This specific military term underscores the completeness of the coming judgment, portraying a literal encirclement that seals the city’s fate.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The word charax describes a military barricade made of sharpened stakes driven into the earth. In Luke 19:43, Jesus uses this image to describe the siege of Jerusalem. It is not just a wall; it is an inescapable enclosure designed to cut off all supplies and escape routes. This vivid picture shows how complete divine judgment can be when people turn away from God's offer of peace.

For your faith, this word reminds us that God sees the consequences of rejecting His love. It invites you to consider where you place your trust. Are you building your life on solid ground, or are you closing yourself off from grace? The image calls for humility and a readiness to listen to God's voice before it is too late.

May this understanding deepen your appreciation for the mercy God offers today. Let us remain open to His guidance, knowing that He desires our safety and well-being above all else.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • a barricade1×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

  • χάρακά1×

Key Verses

  • Luke 19:43
    For the days will come on you when your enemies will throw up a barricade against you, surround you, hem you in on every side,

    This verse uses charax to depict the literal military encirclement of Jerusalem, emphasizing the inescapable nature of the coming judgment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does charax mean?

Charax refers to a pointed stake or barricade used in ancient warfare. It specifically denotes the sharpened wooden pales and earthworks that formed defensive siege walls.

Where does charax appear in the Bible?

It appears only once in the New Testament, in Luke 19:43. Jesus uses it to describe the enemies surrounding Jerusalem with a fortified rampart.

Why is this word significant in Luke 19:43?

It underscores the completeness of the judgment on Jerusalem. The term implies a total encirclement that leaves no escape, highlighting the seriousness of rejecting God's message.

Every Occurrence (1 verses across 1 books)

Luke 1 verse
Luke 19:43

For the days will come on you when your enemies will throw up a barricade against you, surround you, hem you in on…