חַכְלִלוּת (chakh.li.lut)
chakh.li.lut
dullness
H:N-FQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-F
Word Overview
The Hebrew noun chakhliylut describes a state of dullness or redness, specifically referring to the physical appearance of eyes affected by intoxication. It appears only once in the Old Testament, within the wisdom literature of Proverbs 23:29.
In this context, the word paints a vivid picture of the aftermath of excessive drinking. The sources indicate it captures the glazed, lifeless look of vision, alongside the reddened eyes that signal physical strain. It is not merely about fatigue, but a distinct physiological change resulting from consuming too much wine.
This single usage serves as a stark warning in Proverbs against lingering over drinks. By naming this specific bodily sign, the text highlights how alcohol alters one’s very perception, turning clear sight into a dull, confused haze. The word grounds abstract moral advice in tangible, observable reality.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word chakhliylut describes a specific physical change: eyes that have lost their clarity and shine, often appearing dull or reddened due to intoxication. It appears only once in Scripture, in Proverbs 23:29, as part of a stark warning about the consequences of excessive drinking. This term moves beyond general fatigue to highlight how alcohol alters perception, turning clear sight into a confused haze. It grounds moral advice in tangible reality, showing how sin affects our very ability to see clearly.
For your faith life, this word reminds us that spiritual clarity is a gift worth protecting. Just as physical dullness clouds vision, distractions and harmful habits can obscure our understanding of God’s truth. We are invited to guard our hearts and minds, seeking the light of wisdom rather than the temporary haze of indulgence. May you find peace in walking with clear eyes and a steady heart.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- dullness of1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- חַכְלִל֥וּת1×
Key Verses
-
Proverbs 23:29
Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has strife? Who has complaints? Who has needless bruises? Who has bloodshot eyes?
This verse uses chakhliylut to describe the bloodshot, glazed eyes that signal the physical toll of lingering over wine.