חָרַךְ (cha.rakh)
cha.rakh
to roast
H:VQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:V
Word Overview
The Hebrew verb chārakh appears only once in the Old Testament, found in Proverbs 12:27. In this specific context, it describes the act of roasting game or meat over a fire. This usage aligns with common culinary practices in the ancient Near East, where hunting was a significant source of food and leisure for the elite.
While its primary meaning is straightforward cooking, some lexical studies note a secondary sense related to setting something in motion or starting a process. However, this extended meaning is not supported by the single biblical occurrence. The word’s rarity makes it a unique lexical item, highlighting the specific domestic and social details of wisdom literature without broader theological weight.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Proverbs 12:27 uses the rare Hebrew word chārakh, meaning to roast, to paint a vivid picture of daily life. The text contrasts the lazy person, who leaves his game uncooked, with the diligent one, whose possessions are valued. This simple image reminds us that faithfulness often shows up in ordinary tasks.
Your work matters to God. Whether you are preparing a meal or finishing a project, doing it well honors Him. The Bible encourages steady effort over quick shortcuts. When you apply yourself with care, you reflect the character of a faithful Creator.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- he roasts1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- יַחֲרֹ֣ךְ1×
Key Verses
-
Proverbs 12:27
The slothful man doesn’t roast his game, but the possessions of diligent men are prized.
This verse uses the word to contrast the slothful man who fails to roast his game with the diligent whose possessions are prized.