Denotes thorough investigation — to search out, probe deeply, examine exhaustively. It is used for exploring land (Judg 18:2), investigating matters (Prov 25:2), and examining the depths of God's wisdom. The noun chēqer means 'searching, investigation, the result of inquiry.'
The theology of chāqar holds a beautiful paradox: humans are called to search and investigate God's works and ways, yet God Himself is ultimately unsearchable. 'Canst thou by searching (chēqer) find out God? Canst thou find out the Almighty unto perfection?' (Job 11:7). 'His understanding is infinite' — literally 'there is no searching (chēqer) of his understanding' (Isa 40:28; Ps 147:5). Yet this unsearchability does not paralyze inquiry — Proverbs 25:2 declares, 'It is the glory of God to conceal a matter; but the honour of kings to search out a matter.' God invites investigation while remaining inexhaustible. Psalm 139 beautifully reverses the direction: 'O LORD, thou hast searched me, and known me' — God is the ultimate searcher of hearts.