חָבַל
cha.val
be in labour
Lexicon Entry
Lexicon data from STEPBible TIPNR, Tyndale House, Cambridge. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
What Original Readers Understood
ExploredThe Hebrew word ֗H2254C, חָבַל, translates to "be in labor." This word is used three times in the Bible to convey a sense of intense effort or hardship. The meaning is not limited to women in childbirth, but can also describe someone who is experiencing a demanding situation. The significance of this word lies in its connection to themes of hardship, struggle, and perseverance. In the biblical context, being in labor implies a need for patience, endurance, and sometimes, even divine intervention. This word highlights the human experience of facing challenges and the importance of coping mechanisms. In its three occurrences, ֗H2254C is often used in conjunction with other verbs that describe labor or hard work, such as giving birth or experiencing hardship. This word adds depth to the narrative, emphasizing the complexity and emotional toll of the struggles being described.
Source data & methodology
Occurrences in Scripture
3 total occurrences across the text
Behold, he travails with iniquity. Yes, he has conceived mischief, and brought out falsehood.
Song of Solomon 8:5Who is this who comes up from the wilderness, leaning on her beloved? Under the apple tree I aroused you. There your mother conceived you. There she was in labor and bore you.
Song of Solomon 8:5Who is this who comes up from the wilderness, leaning on her beloved? Under the apple tree I aroused you. There your mother conceived you. There she was in labor and bore you.