תָּכַן
to balance, i.e. measure out (by weight or dimension); figuratively, arrange, equalize
Definition
The verb תָּכַן (tâkan) primarily means to measure or weigh something precisely, often in a literal sense of balancing scales (2 Kings 12:11). Figuratively, it extends to the idea of evaluating, arranging, or establishing something with careful judgment, such as God measuring the heavens (Isaiah 40:12) or evaluating human motives (Proverbs 16:2). In some contexts, it carries the sense of making something level, equal, or just, as seen when the earth's foundations are established (Psalm 75:3) or when actions are weighed (1 Samuel 2:3).
Biblical Usage
תָּכַן is used 13 times, primarily in poetic and wisdom literature (Job, Psalms, Proverbs). It appears in contexts of divine action, such as God measuring creation (Job 28:25, Isaiah 40:12) and judging human hearts (Proverbs 21:2, Proverbs 24:12). In historical narrative, it describes the literal weighing of silver (2 Kings 12:11). The word consistently conveys careful assessment, whether physical or moral.
Etymology
A primitive root, its core meaning relates to balancing or making level. Cognates in other Semitic languages suggest a base meaning of 'to be straight, right, or just.' The Hebrew development moved from physical measuring to metaphorical evaluating and establishing.
Semantic Range
This word is theologically significant as it highlights God's role as the ultimate measurer and judge. It underscores His omniscience in evaluating human motives (Proverbs 16:2) and His sovereignty in ordering creation (Isaiah 40:12). Understanding תָּכַן enriches reading by emphasizing that God's judgments are perfectly balanced and just, contrasting with human self-assessment.
In ancient Near Eastern culture, precise weighing on scales was crucial for commerce and justice. The metaphorical use draws on this tangible image of balanced scales to communicate concepts of divine equity, fair judgment, and moral order, which would be immediately understood by the original audience.
שָׁקַל (shāqal, H8254) — more specifically 'to weigh' as in commerce; פָּקַד (pāqad, H6485) — to attend to or visit, often for judgment or oversight; דִּין (dîn, H1777) — to judge or contend legally.
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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