חַלָּמִישׁ
flint
Definition
Challâmîysh refers to a type of extremely hard, dense rock, specifically flint or a flint-like stone. In the Bible, it is used both literally and metaphorically. Literally, it describes the hard, sharp rock from which water miraculously flowed for Israel in the wilderness (Deuteronomy 8:15, Psalm 114:8). Metaphorically, it symbolizes unyielding hardness or strength, as when God is said to have made Israel 'suck honey out of the rock, and oil out of the flinty rock' (Deuteronomy 32:13), or when the prophet Isaiah sets his face 'like a flint' (Isaiah 50:7) to denote resolute determination.
Biblical Usage
This word is used five times in the Old Testament, primarily in poetic and prophetic contexts. It appears in historical recollection (Deuteronomy 8:15), poetic song (Deuteronomy 32:13), wisdom literature (Job 28:9), a psalm of praise (Psalm 114:8), and prophetic declaration (Isaiah 50:7). Its usage consistently emphasizes the qualities of extreme hardness and durability, whether describing a physical landscape feature or serving as a powerful metaphor for divine provision or human resolve.
Etymology
The noun challâmîysh is likely derived from the root חָלַם (chalam, H2492), which means 'to be strong' or 'to dream.' The connection to 'strength' points to the perceived inherent hardness and durability of flint rock. This etymology underscores the primary characteristic for which the stone was known in the ancient world.
Semantic Range
This word is theologically significant as it highlights God's miraculous provision and sustaining power in seemingly impossible situations, like bringing water from flint (Deuteronomy 8:15). It also illustrates the concept of divinely granted strength and resilience, as seen in the metaphor of Israel drawing rich sustenance from a flinty rock (Deuteronomy 32:13) and the prophet's resolute faithfulness modeled on flint's hardness (Isaiah 50:7). Understanding this Hebrew term enriches reading by connecting God's character—as provider and strengthener—to a tangible, culturally understood symbol of durability.
In the ancient Near East, flint was a crucial material for tools and weapons due to its hardness and ability to be shaped into sharp edges. Its use for striking sparks to make fire was also known. Culturally, 'flint' was synonymous with impenetrable hardness and barrenness. The biblical imagery of drawing water or honey from flint would have been a striking paradox to the original audience, dramatically emphasizing the miraculous nature of God's acts.
צוּר (tsur, H6697) — a more general term for 'rock' or 'cliff,' often used for God as a refuge. סֶלַע (sela', H5553) — a 'crag' or 'lofty rock,' frequently used for God as a fortress and for literal rock formations. סַלְעָ (salʿa, H5553) — a variant form of sela'.
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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