חָרִיט (cha.rit)
cha.rit
purse
H:N-MQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-M
Word Overview
The noun ḥarîṭ refers to a bag or purse, specifically one used for carrying money or valuables. In the Hebrew Bible, this term appears only twice, appearing in Isaiah 46:1 and II Kings 5:22. Its usage is practical and concrete, describing a container held by hand or carried, rather than a general sack for grain or goods.
The word’s limited occurrence makes its context significant. In II Kings, the servant Gehazi uses a ḥarîṭ to carry gifts from Naaman, highlighting its function as a portable vessel for personal wealth. Isaiah employs the term metaphorically, describing idols that must be carried in such bags, underscoring their burden and lack of power compared to Yahweh.
Etymologically, the root likely relates to cutting or splitting, suggesting a bag made from stitched leather or hide. This physical detail aligns with its use for valuable items that require secure containment. The term distinguishes small, handheld money pouches from larger storage vessels, reflecting ancient economic practices where currency was carried in specialized containers.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
In a world that often measures worth by what we carry, these ancient texts offer a quiet perspective on material possessions. The Hebrew word for purse appears in contexts where wealth is either being transferred or mocked as powerless. It reminds us that the objects we hold are temporary tools, not permanent sources of security.
When Isaiah describes idols carried in such bags, he highlights their inability to save themselves, let alone others. This contrast invites reflection on what we truly trust. Are our resources serving a purpose, or have they become burdens that define our identity? The text suggests that true stability comes from relying on God rather than the contents of our pockets.
Ultimately, this word points to the fleeting nature of earthly treasure. It encourages a heart that is generous yet detached, using what we have without being defined by it. May you find peace in knowing that your value is not stored in bags or bundles, but in the enduring love of your Creator.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- bags1×
- and/ the/ purses1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- חֲרִטִ֗ים1×
- וְ/הָ/חֲרִיטִֽים\׃1×
Key Verses
-
Isaiah 3:22
the fine robes, the capes, the cloaks, the purses,
This verse lists purses among luxury items, showing how wealth can become a distraction from spiritual focus.
-
II Kings 5:23
Naaman said, “Be pleased to take two talents.” He urged him, and bound two talents of silver in two bags, with two changes of clothing, and laid them on two of his servants; and they carried them before him.
Gehazi uses this bag to secretly carry gifts, illustrating how portable wealth can tempt individuals toward deceit.