חֲמוֹר (cha.mo.rah)
cha.mo.rah
heap
H:N-MQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-M
Word Overview
The noun chamor denotes a pile or mound of material, appearing in Scripture with singular frequency in Judges 15:16. In this context, it describes the mass of jawbone that Samson accumulated after his victory over the Philistines. The word captures the physical result of gathering loose objects into a single, substantial heap.
Its usage is strictly concrete, referring to the visible accumulation of debris or body parts rather than an abstract concept. Translators typically render it as "heap" or "pile," emphasizing the tangible nature of the scene. The term highlights the sheer volume of the remains left behind, serving as a stark marker of the battle's outcome.
This rare word anchors the narrative in physical reality, focusing on the aftermath rather than the combat itself. By naming the pile, the text underscores the finality of Samson’s action and the grim monument he leaves at Ramath Lehi.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word chamor describes a heap or pile, appearing in Scripture to mark tangible accumulation. In Judges 15:16, Samson uses it to describe the mass of jawbones he gathered after defeating the Philistines. This concrete image anchors the narrative in physical reality, highlighting the sheer volume of what was left behind.
For your faith, this word reminds us that God’s work often leaves visible results. Just as Samson’s victory created a lasting monument, our actions and God’s grace in our lives leave marks that testify to His power. We do not need to seek abstract explanations; the evidence of His presence is often found in the concrete outcomes of our days.
When you feel overwhelmed by the chaos around you, remember that God can bring order and purpose even from scattered pieces. His strength does not depend on your ability to control everything, but on His faithfulness to work through whatever situation He places before you.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- two heaps1×
- a heap1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- חֲמֹרָתָ֑יִם1×
- חֲמ֖וֹר1×
Key Verses
-
Judges 15:16
Samson said, “With the jawbone of a donkey, heaps on heaps; with the jawbone of a donkey I have struck a thousand men.”
This verse uniquely uses chamor to describe the accumulated jawbones Samson piled up, emphasizing the physical scale of his victory rather than the combat itself.