חוּט (chut)
chut
to repair
A:VQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- A:V
Word Overview
The Hebrew word chut, appearing in the Hiphil stem, carries the specific meaning of repairing or joining together. While it is a rare term in the Old Testament, its usage in Ezra 4:12 provides a clear window into its function. In this context, the verb describes the act of restoring something that has been damaged or broken, specifically referring to the rebuilding of foundations.
Its occurrence in this single verse highlights the physical labor involved in reconstruction. The text uses it to describe the work done on the city’s infrastructure, emphasizing the tangible effort required to restore order and stability. This concrete application distinguishes it from more abstract terms for restoration, grounding the concept in the reality of construction and maintenance.
Understanding chut helps readers appreciate the detailed nature of the rebuilding efforts described in Ezra. It is not merely a metaphorical renewal but a literal joining of materials to strengthen structures. This precision reminds us that biblical narratives often focus on the practical steps taken to preserve community and faith through physical repair.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word chut appears only once in the Old Testament, found in Ezra 4:12. It describes the specific act of repairing foundations during the rebuilding of Jerusalem. This rare term highlights the physical labor and tangible effort required to restore stability to a community. It is not a vague concept but a concrete action involving the joining of materials to strengthen structures.
For your faith, this reminds us that God often works through practical steps. Rebuilding our lives or communities requires more than good intentions; it demands the hard work of restoration. When things are broken, there is value in the careful, steady effort to put them back together. This process reflects a commitment to order and safety, showing that spiritual renewal often has physical roots.
Even when challenges seem overwhelming, the act of repairing something solid can bring hope. It shows that stability is possible through persistent work. We are encouraged to engage in these tangible efforts, knowing that restoring what is damaged honors God. This focus on practical care helps us build a foundation that can withstand future difficulties.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- they are repairing1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- יַחִֽיטוּ\׃1×
Key Verses
-
Ezra 4:12
Be it known to the king that the Jews who came up from you have come to us to Jerusalem. They are building the rebellious and bad city, and have finished the walls and repaired the foundations.
This verse uses chut to describe the literal repair of city foundations, emphasizing the physical labor involved in restoring Jerusalem's stability.