Original Word: חַלָּק
Part of Speech: Noun Masculine
Transliteration: challaq
Pronunciation: khaw-lak'
Phonetic Spelling: (khal-lawk')
Definition: To divide, to share, to apportion, to distribute
Meaning: smooth

smooth

From chalaq; smooth -- smooth.

see HEBREW chalaq

Word Origin
the same as chalaq, q.v.

Word Origin: Derived from the root חָלַק (chalak), which means "to be smooth" or "to divide."

Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: • The Greek equivalent for the concept of smoothness, particularly in speech, can be found in words like "κολακεία" (kolakeia), meaning "flattery," and "λεῖος" (leios), meaning "smooth." These terms capture the essence of חַלָּק in the context of smooth and potentially deceitful speech.

Usage: The word חַלָּק is used in the Hebrew Bible to describe surfaces that are smooth, such as stones or skin. It is also used metaphorically to describe speech that is smooth or flattering, often with a negative connotation of deceitfulness.

Context: • The term חַלָּק appears in various contexts within the Hebrew Bible. It is used to describe physical smoothness, such as in Genesis 27:11, where Jacob describes himself as a "smooth" man in contrast to his brother Esau, who is hairy. This physical description sets the stage for the deception that follows, as Jacob uses smoothness both literally and metaphorically to deceive his father Isaac.
• In a metaphorical sense, חַלָּק is used to describe speech that is smooth or flattering, often with the implication of deceit. For example, in Psalm 55:21, the psalmist laments, "His speech is smooth as butter, yet war is in his heart; his words are more soothing than oil, yet they are drawn swords." Here, the smoothness of speech is contrasted with the underlying intent of harm, highlighting the deceitful nature of such words.
• The concept of smoothness in speech is further explored in Proverbs, where it is often associated with the seductive and deceitful words of the adulteress. Proverbs 5:3 warns, "For the lips of an adulteress drip honey, and her speech is smoother than oil," again using the imagery of smoothness to convey the danger of being led astray by flattering words.
• The use of חַלָּק in these contexts underscores a broader biblical theme of the dangers of deceit and the importance of discernment in recognizing the true intent behind smooth words.

בְּחַלְּקֵי־ בחלקי־ bə·ḥal·lə·qê- bechallekei bəḥalləqê-Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts