חָסַד (cha.sad)
cha.sad
be kind; to shame
H:VQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:V
Word Overview
The Hebrew verb chasad is unusual because it carries two distinct meanings that depend entirely on its grammatical form. In the Hithpael stem, it means to show kindness or be good, specifically toward oneself. This rare usage appears in Proverbs 25:10, where the text warns against revealing a secret, lest the speaker bring shame upon themselves rather than showing proper self-respect.
Conversely, in the Piel stem, the word shifts to mean being reproached or put to shame. This sense is found in II Samuel 6:20, where Michal criticizes David for dancing before the Lord, implying he has uncovered himself and brought disgrace upon his royal status. The lexical sources note that these are separate verbal roots sharing the same consonants, rather than a single word with contradictory definitions.
This duality highlights how Hebrew morphology determines meaning. While many Hebrew words have nuanced shades of a single concept, chasad demonstrates a complete semantic split based on voice and stem. Translators must carefully check the grammatical context to decide whether the passage calls for an act of kindness or describes a state of humiliation.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Hebrew verb chasad presents a fascinating study in how context shapes meaning. While we often associate kindness with generosity toward others, this specific word highlights the importance of self-respect and dignity. In Proverbs 25:10, it warns against revealing secrets that could lead to shame, suggesting that guarding one's reputation is an act of personal integrity.
Conversely, in II Samuel 6:20, the term describes the pain of public disgrace when David dances before the Lord. Michal’s criticism focuses on the loss of royal dignity rather than spiritual devotion. This contrast reminds us that our actions have social consequences, and how we present ourselves matters deeply in community life.
Understanding this word helps us navigate situations where reputation and humility intersect. It encourages thoughtful conduct that honors both God and our standing among others, without compromising truth or integrity.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- you show yourself faithful1×
- he should bring shame/ you1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- תִּתְחַסָּ֑ד1×
- יְחַסֶּדְ/ךָ֥1×
Key Verses
-
Proverbs 25:10
lest one who hears it put you to shame, and your bad reputation never depart.
This verse uses the Hithpael stem to warn that revealing a secret brings personal shame, showing how discretion protects one's reputation.