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H2330 · Hebrew · Old Testament
חוּד
Chud
Verb
To propound a riddle; to ask a riddle

Definition

The Hebrew verb chud (חוּד) means to propound, utter, or ask a riddle. It appears in the context of Samson's famous riddle at his wedding feast (Judges 14) and in wisdom literature where riddles are a form of teaching.

Usage & Theological Significance

Riddles (chidot) are a recognized wisdom form in Scripture. The Queen of Sheba came to test Solomon 'with hard questions' — literally riddles (chidot, 1 Kings 10:1). Proverbs 1:6 lists understanding riddles as a mark of wisdom. Samson's riddle about the lion and honey (Judges 14:14) — 'Out of the eater came something to eat; out of the strong came something sweet' — is ultimately a parable of grace: life and sweetness emerging from death and strength, foreshadowing the Gospel itself.

Key Bible Verses

Judges 14:12
Samson said to them, 'Let me tell you a riddle (echudah).' If you can give me the answer within the seven days of the feast, I will give you thirty linen garments.'
Judges 14:14
He replied, 'Out of the eater, something to eat; out of the strong, something sweet.' For three days they could not give the answer.
1 Kings 10:1
When the queen of Sheba heard about the fame of Solomon and his relationship to the LORD, she came to test Solomon with hard questions (chidot).
Proverbs 1:6
for understanding proverbs and parables, the sayings and riddles (chidot) of the wise.
Psalm 49:4
I will turn my ear to a proverb; with the harp I will expound my riddle (chidati).

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