חָסֹן
powerful
Definition
The Hebrew noun חָסֹן (châçôn) denotes a state of being powerful, mighty, or strong. It specifically describes a formidable strength, often in a comparative sense, highlighting the superior power of one entity over another. In Amos 2:9, it is used to describe the Amorites, whose might was proverbial, being 'tall as the cedars and strong as the oaks.' In Isaiah 1:31, the word is applied metaphorically to the self-reliant, idolatrous 'mighty man' whose strength will fail, comparing his power to tinder that will be consumed.
Biblical Usage
This word occurs only twice in the Old Testament. In both instances, it is used in prophetic literature to describe formidable strength that is ultimately overcome by God. Amos 2:9 uses it in a historical reflection on the military might of the Amorites, which God subdued for Israel. Isaiah 1:31 employs it in a judgment oracle against the proud and wicked in Judah, portraying their human strength as destructible. The pattern is one of contrasting human power with divine sovereignty.
Etymology
The noun חָסֹן (châçôn, H2634) is derived from the root verb חָסַן (châçan, H2630), which means to be or become strong, firm, or fortified. This root conveys the idea of gathering or storing strength. The noun form captures the resultant state or quality of possessing that gathered strength. It is related to concepts of fortification and security.
Semantic Range
This word is theologically significant as it highlights a key biblical theme: the futility of human strength apart from God. In both its uses, formidable power—whether of a pagan nation (Amos 2:9) or a self-reliant individual (Isaiah 1:31)—is portrayed as ultimately subject to God's judgment. It enriches the reading of these prophetic texts by underscoring that true, enduring strength is found only in reliance on the Lord, not in human might (cf. Zechariah 4:6).
In the ancient Near Eastern context, physical strength, military might, and the stature of warriors (like the tall Amorites) were highly valued and feared. The description of strength being 'like the oaks' (Amos 2:9) uses a natural metaphor for stability and durability that would be immediately understood. The prophet's message subverts this cultural ideal by showing its vulnerability before God.
גִּבּוֹר (gibbôr, H1368) — a mighty man/warrior, focusing on heroic prowess. עֹז (ʿôz, H5797) — strength, power, often of God, emphasizing might and majesty. כֹּחַ (kôach, H3581) — strength, capacity, or force, often physical or material power.
Word Details
How this works
Hebrew definitions are from Brown-Driver-Briggs (1906) and Strong's Exhaustive Concordance (1890), both public domain. BDB was groundbreaking for its era but reflects 19th-century assumptions about Semitic etymology. Modern scholarship (HALOT, DCH) has revised many entries. Use these definitions as a starting point for exploration, not as the final word on a term's meaning in context.
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