חֶ֫תֶף (che.teph)
che.teph
robber
H:N-MQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-M
Word Overview
The Hebrew noun che.teph refers to something seized by force, meaning "prey" or a "robber." It appears only once in the Old Testament, in Proverbs 23:28. In this context, it describes a woman who ambushes her victims like a wild animal, lying in wait to capture those who are drunk or vulnerable.
This single usage paints a vivid picture of sudden, violent danger. The word emphasizes the predatory nature of the threat, suggesting that the victim is caught off guard and overpowered. Translators typically render it as "robber" or "prey" to convey this sense of being seized by force rather than through mutual agreement.
Its rarity in Scripture highlights the specific warning in Proverbs about hidden dangers. By using a term associated with wild animals or thieves, the text underscores the seriousness of avoiding situations where one's judgment is impaired. The word serves as a stark reminder of the physical risks associated with loss of self-control.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Hebrew word che.teph appears only once in Scripture, painting a startling picture of sudden danger. In Proverbs 23:28, it describes a woman who ambushes her victims like a wild animal or a thief lying in wait. This rare term highlights the predatory nature of threats that catch us off guard when we are vulnerable.
Wisdom literature often warns against situations where judgment is impaired, such as excessive drinking. The imagery here serves as a stark reminder that loss of self-control can make one an easy target for those who seek to seize what is not theirs. It underscores the seriousness of guarding your heart and mind against hidden dangers.
Understanding this word invites us to be vigilant in our daily lives. We are encouraged to avoid environments where we might become vulnerable to exploitation or harm. By staying alert and making wise choices, we protect ourselves from those who operate in the shadows, seeking to take advantage of others' weakness.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- like/ a robber1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- כְּ/חֶ֣תֶף1×
Key Verses
-
Proverbs 23:28
Yes, she lies in wait like a robber, and increases the unfaithful among men.
This verse uses che.teph to compare a seductress to a robber lying in wait, emphasizing the sudden and predatory nature of the threat against those who are drunk or vulnerable.