The Hebrew chaburah refers to a bruise, a welt, or a wound caused by beating. It specifically denotes the mark left by a blow — the physical evidence of suffering inflicted on the body.
Chaburah is perhaps most profoundly used in Isaiah 53:5 — one of the most theologically rich verses in all of Scripture: 'by his stripes we are healed.' The Suffering Servant's wounds become the instrument of redemption for others. This word bridges Israelite law (Exodus 21:25), wisdom literature, and messianic prophecy to the New Testament fulfillment in the cross of Christ (1 Peter 2:24). The bruise that heals is the great paradox of atonement.