חָלַשׁ (cha.lash)
cha.lash
to weaken
H:VQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:V
Word Overview
The Hebrew verb chālash describes a state of physical or spiritual collapse. In the Old Testament, it typically depicts someone who is weakened, disabled, or prostrate on the ground. The word conveys a loss of strength that leaves a person unable to stand or continue their journey.
This term appears in key narratives where human frailty meets divine action. In Exodus 17:12, Moses’ arms grow heavy and tired during battle, so Aaron and Hur support him so his hands do not fail. Similarly, in Isaiah 40:29, God is described as giving power to the weary and increasing the strength of those who have no might. The word captures the moment when human effort reaches its limit.
Unlike words that simply mean "tired," chālash implies a more profound exhaustion or disablement. It often sets the stage for divine intervention, highlighting that true strength comes from God rather than human capability. Translators usually render it as "grow weak" or "be faint," preserving the sense of physical surrender.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word chālash describes a deep exhaustion where human strength simply runs out. It is not just being tired after a long day, but a total collapse of ability. In Exodus, Moses’ arms grew so heavy he could no longer hold them up. He needed others to support him so the battle could continue. This shows that weakness is not a failure, but a signal that we need help.
When you feel too weak to keep going, this word reminds you that God notices. Isaiah tells us God gives power to the weary and increases strength for those who have none. Your limits are not the end of your story. They are the place where divine support begins. You do not have to carry everything alone.
This truth brings comfort. When you cannot stand on your own, you can lean on God’s strength. It is okay to admit you are weak. In that honesty, you find a power that never fades. Let this assurance settle in your heart today.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- and/ he was weak1×
- and/ he defeated1×
- O defeater1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- חוֹלֵ֖שׁ1×
- וַֽ/יֶּחֱלָ֑שׁ1×
- וַ/יַּחֲלֹ֧שׁ1×
Key Verses
-
Exodus 17:13
Joshua defeated Amalek and his people with the edge of the sword.
This verse shows the result of sustained weakness when support is finally given, allowing Joshua to defeat Amalek.
-
Job 14:10
But man dies, and is laid low. Yes, man gives up the spirit, and where is he?
Here the word describes the finality of human death, where strength is completely lost and the spirit departs.
-
Isaiah 14:12
How you have fallen from heaven, shining one, son of the dawn! How you are cut down to the ground, who laid the nations low!
The term depicts the dramatic fall of a proud leader, cut down from height to the ground in total defeat.