H3738 כָּרָה kârâh → Root

7 languages

Root of the כרה kârâh family (5 members).

To dig, bore, or excavate, with primary reference to cutting into the ground or another surface. The term can be used concretely for the manual process of digging (e.g., wells, pits, graves) and more rarely is extended metaphorically for the act of scheming, plotting, or devising—especially in the sense of laying a trap or preparing harm. The concept further extends by metonymy to preparing or making something, particularly a feast, by provisioning and setting up through labor.

Etymology From the root כרה, which carries the core idea of 'digging, excavating, cutting into.' The verb כָּרָה arises as a primary verb, generally denoting the action of digging or preparing by excavation. Its less frequent metaphorical senses (to plot or devise) and metonymic use in 'making a banquet' derive from the physical act and work of preparation implied by the root.

Reflexes · not yet grouped by proto-form

Language	Word	Meaning	Root
Bemba	kola	to dig	kol
Digo	kóla	to dig	-kol-
Kaonde	kola	to dig	-kol-
Lunda	kola	to dig	-kol-
Luvale	kola	to dig	-kol-
Pokomo	kola	to dig	-kol-
Swahili	kola	to dig (used dialectally, nonstandard; standard is 'chimba')	kol

Family members (4)

Lexemes that inherit from this canonical via the SilexRoot family or an additional inheritance edge. Tags show the cognate-propagation status.

H3739 כָּרָה kârâh unset
To acquire or obtain through purchase, especially by means of a formal agreement or transaction. In some contexts, to pr
H3740 כֵּרָה kêrâh unset
A portion or share received or acquired, often through purchase or provision; can refer to a supply of food, a banquet,
H3741 כָּרָה kârâh unset
A meadow, pasture, or cultivated field; also used for a settlement, habitation, or cottage in certain contexts. The term
H4379 מִכְרֶה mikreh unset
A place excavated or dug out, typically used as a salt pit, mine, or quarry. In biblical usage, refers most often to an

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