חָקָה (cha.qah)
cha.qah
to engrave
H:VQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:V
Word Overview
The Hebrew verb chaqah primarily means to carve or cut into a surface. In the Old Testament, it appears only twice, and both instances use the passive participle form, describing something that has been engraved. This grammatical choice shifts the focus from the act of carving to the finished work itself — a permanent mark left on stone.
One notable occurrence is in Job 19:24, where the speaker longs for his words to be "engraved" in rock. Here, the image conveys a desire for permanence and durability, contrasting with the fragility of human life. The second instance, found in 1 Kings 7:17, describes decorative carvings on the pillars of Solomon’s temple, highlighting its use in artistic or architectural contexts.
The root sense involves cutting deeply enough to create a lasting impression. Unlike temporary markings, engraving implies effort and intentionality, making it a fitting metaphor for something meant to endure through time.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Hebrew word for engraving describes a deliberate act of cutting deeply into stone. It is not a surface scratch that fades with time or touch. Instead, it leaves a permanent mark that withstands wear and weather. This imagery speaks to the desire for something to last beyond our immediate presence.
In Job 19:24, the speaker wishes his words were engraved on rock. He longs for his truth to remain when he is gone. This reflects a deep human need to be remembered and to have one’s life matter in the eyes of God. It reminds us that what we hold dear can outlast our physical strength.
Similarly, the pillars of Solomon’s temple featured these carvings. They were not just decorative but stood as enduring symbols of God’s house. For your faith, this word encourages you to trust that your relationship with God is secure. He does not leave temporary marks; He establishes lasting covenants.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- you make a mark1×
- the/ carved [work]1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- תִּתְחַקֶּֽה\׃1×
- הַ/מְּחֻקֶּֽה\׃1×