כָּרָה
properly, to dig; figuratively, to plot; generally, to bore or open
Definition
The Hebrew verb כָּרָה (kârâh) primarily means 'to dig,' referring to the physical act of excavating earth, as seen in digging wells (Genesis 26:25) or pits (Exodus 21:33). Figuratively, it extends to the idea of plotting or devising evil, where one metaphorically 'digs a pit' as a trap for others, a usage prominent in the wisdom literature (Job 6:27, Psalm 7:15). In a more general sense, it can mean to bore, open, or prepare, such as in hewing out a tomb (2 Chronicles 16:14) or even preparing a banquet (though this specific sense is debated, with the KJV translating it as 'make' in Proverbs 9:2).
Biblical Usage
כָּרָה is used 17 times across various genres. Its literal sense of digging appears in historical narratives for wells (Genesis 26:25, Numbers 21:18) and pits (Exodus 21:33). The figurative sense of plotting evil is central in poetic and wisdom texts like Job and Psalms (Job 6:27, Psalm 7:15). It also describes the hewing of a royal tomb (2 Chronicles 16:14) and, in a unique context, the 'digging' or 'boring' of Leviathan's eyes (Job 41:6).
Etymology
As a primitive root, כָּרָה (kârâh) is the base for the concept of digging or hollowing out. It is related to other Semitic roots with similar meanings. The development from the concrete action of digging to the abstract idea of plotting is a natural metaphorical extension, imagining evil plans as a secretly dug trap.
Semantic Range
The figurative use of כָּרָה is theologically significant, vividly illustrating the nature of sin and deceit. When the Psalms or wisdom literature describe the wicked 'digging a pit' (Psalm 7:15), it portrays sin as a premeditated, hidden act of aggression that often backfires on the perpetrator. This imagery reinforces the biblical theme of divine justice and the self-destructive nature of evil plans, enriching our understanding of God's moral governance.
In an agrarian society dependent on wells for survival, the literal act of digging was a vital, communal effort (Numbers 21:18). The metaphor of digging a pit for trapping animals was a common practice, making the figurative use for treachery immediately understandable. Preparing a rock-cut tomb was a significant cultural act for honoring the dead, as with King Asa (2 Chronicles 16:14).
חָפַר (châphar, H2658) — also 'to dig,' but often for searching or investigating; more general. פָּלַל (pâlal, H6419) — to intervene, judge; distinct as it relates to prayer/judgment, not physical action. עָשָׂה (ʿâsâh, H6213) — to do or make; a very broad general verb, whereas כָּרָה is specific to digging/plotting.
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.
Full methodology & sources →