Lexical Summary charakkim: Crevices, cracks, or fissures Original Word: חֶרֶךְ Strong's Exhaustive Concordance lattice From charak; properly, a net, i.e. (by analogy) lattice -- lattice. see HEBREW charak NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originof uncertain derivation Definition a lattice NASB Translation lattice (1). Brown-Driver-Briggs חֲרַכִּים noun [masculine] plural lattice or other opening through which one may look (Aramaic חֲרַכָּא ᵑ7 Joshua 2:15 and elsewhere=Hebrew חַלּ֖וֺן; but Late Hebrew חֲרָךְ is an opening smaller than a window) — only ׳מֵצִיץ מִןהַֿח Songs 2:9 peeping in at the lattice ("" מַשְׁגִּיחַ מִןהַֿחַלֹּנוֺת). חרל (√ of following; meaning unknown). Topical Lexicon Definition and Imagery חֶרֶךְ denotes a screened opening or latticework—an interlaced pattern of wood, reeds, or metal set within a wall or window. Such structures allowed light and air to pass while offering privacy and protection, making them a natural metaphor for limited yet purposeful revelation. Biblical Occurrence Song of Solomon 2:9 is the sole occurrence: “My beloved is like a gazelle or a young stag. Behold, He stands behind our wall, gazing through the windows, peering through the lattice”. Here the lattice frames a moment of eager longing between bride and bridegroom, simultaneously concealing and revealing the beloved’s presence. Cultural and Architectural Background Latticework was common in ancient Near Eastern homes. Archaeology at sites such as Samaria and Megiddo has uncovered patterned screens that moderated light and heat while discouraging intruders. The Song’s reference suggests an upper-class domicile, fitting the poem’s royal setting. Lattices also appear in later Greco-Roman architecture, underscoring their durability and widespread use. Theological Implications 1. Partial Revelation: The beloved is present yet not fully seen. Scripture often portrays God’s self-disclosure in measured degrees—cloud, veil, parable—inviting pursuit (Exodus 33:20-23; 1 Corinthians 13:12). Practical Ministry Applications • Worship: Encourage believers to seek the Lord beyond initial glimpses, cultivating expectancy rooted in covenant promises. Christological Foreshadowing The Bridegroom who “peers through the lattice” anticipates the incarnate Word who “tabernacled among us” (John 1:14). During His earthly ministry Jesus revealed the Father yet retained aspects of divine glory veiled (Matthew 17:2; John 17:5). After His resurrection the veil is lifted progressively until believers see Him “face to face” (1 Corinthians 13:12). Devotional Reflection When God seems just beyond reach, remember the lattice: He is present, attentive, and inviting. The fleeting silhouette through the screen assures the bride of the groom’s desire. Likewise, seasons of partial sight are opportunities to deepen longing and faith. Related Scriptures While חֶרֶךְ is unique to Song of Solomon 2:9, similar motifs of screened or veiled sight appear in: Historical Reception Jewish and Christian commentators have long read the lattice as symbolizing the era of promise before Messiah’s full disclosure. Medieval mystics applied it to contemplative prayer, while Reformation teachers employed it to stress the sufficiency yet partiality of Scripture prior to glory. Eschatological Hope The lattice will ultimately be removed. “Now we see but a dim reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face” (1 Corinthians 13:12). Until that day, the glimpse granted through חֶרֶךְ sustains the church’s hope and fuels its mission. Forms and Transliterations הַֽחֲרַכִּֽים׃ החרכים׃ ha·ḥă·rak·kîm HacharakKim haḥărakkîmLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel TextsEnglishman's Concordance Songs 2:9 HEB: מֵצִ֖יץ מִן־ הַֽחֲרַכִּֽים׃ NAS: He is peering through the lattice. KJV: shewing himself through the lattice. INT: is peering through the lattice 1 Occurrence |
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