a primitive root (rather by transposition for בָּהַל); to palpitate; hence, (causatively) to terrify; trouble.
Transliteration:bâlahh
Pronunciation:baw-lah'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew root H1089 (bâlahh) is described as a primitive root, possibly a transposition of `{{H0926}}` (bâhal). Its core semantic range begins with an internal, physical sensation: "to palpitate," suggesting a rapid, irregular beating of the heart, often associated with fear or agitation. From this foundational meaning of internal disturbance, the word extends causatively to "terrify" or "trouble," implying an action that induces such a state in others. Thus, H1089 encompasses both the experience of profound internal disquiet and the act of causing such distress, pointing to a deep and unsettling disturbance, whether self-experienced or inflicted.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The root H1089 is notably rare in the Hebrew Bible, appearing primarily in the book of Daniel, specifically in chapter 5. Its occurrences vividly depict a state of intense fear and agitation:
* In [[Daniel 5:9]], it describes King Belshazzar's reaction to the mysterious writing on the wall: "Then King Belshazzar was greatly troubled (בָּלַהּ), and his countenance changed, and his lords were perplexed." Here, the Niphal stem (passive) emphasizes that the king *was made* troubled, highlighting the overwhelming and external source of his terror. The context is one of divine intervention and impending judgment, rendering the king powerless and terrified.
* Similarly, in [[Daniel 5:10]], the queen advises the king, "Let not your thoughts trouble (בָּלַהּ) you or your countenance change." Again, in the Niphal, it refers to thoughts or the situation causing profound mental and emotional distress.
These occurrences consistently portray a visceral, uncontrollable fear that grips individuals in the face of the inexplicable or the divine, manifesting as physical changes (countenance changing) and deep internal disturbance. The use of H1089 in these passages underscores the severity and depth of the terror experienced by those confronted with God's direct, judgmental action.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word to H1089 is `{{H0926}}` (bâhal), which means "to be agitated, dismayed, terrified, or hurried." The Septuagint often translates H1089 with Greek terms like tarassō (to trouble, stir up) or ekplēssō (to strike out, amaze, astound), emphasizing the overwhelming nature of the fear. Other related Hebrew terms that convey aspects of fear, dread, or trembling include:
* `{{H3014}}` (yāre'): A general term for fear, ranging from reverence to terror.
* `{{H6342}}` (pâḥad): To dread, tremble, be in terror, often implying a physical shaking or quaking.
* `{{H2729}}` (ḥarad): To tremble, be afraid, or be anxious, also often with physical manifestations.
While these terms share semantic overlap, H1089 uniquely emphasizes the internal, almost physiological, aspect of "palpitation" as the root of the terror, which then extends to the broader sense of being troubled or terrified.
### Theological Significance
The rarity and specific context of H1089 lend it significant theological weight. Its use in Daniel 5 illustrates the profound and overwhelming nature of divine revelation and judgment. When God directly intervenes, as with the hand writing on the wall, the human response is not mere apprehension but a deep, visceral terror (bâlahh). This terror is not merely psychological but has physical manifestations, highlighting the holistic impact of divine encounter. It serves as a powerful descriptor of the human reaction to the manifest presence or decree of the holy God, particularly when that presence signifies judgment or an incomprehensible divine action. The king's inability to comprehend or control his fear, despite his worldly power, emphasizes that true terror comes from a source beyond human dominion. It points to God as the ultimate source of awe and dread, particularly for those who defy Him, demonstrating human frailty and vulnerability before divine power.
### Summary
H1089 (bâlahh) is a rare but impactful Hebrew root primarily meaning "to palpitate," extending to "terrify" or "trouble." Its most prominent biblical occurrences in Daniel 5 vividly describe the profound and uncontrollable fear that gripped King Belshazzar and his court in response to the divine writing on the wall. Closely related to `{{H0926}}` (bâhal), H1089 underscores the visceral, almost physiological, nature of terror when confronted with divine judgment or an incomprehensible act of God. Theologically, it highlights human vulnerability and the awesome, often terrifying, power of God when He reveals Himself in judgment, evoking a fear that transcends mere apprehension and manifests as a deeply unsettling, physical and psychological disruption.
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