### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **beçer**, represented by `{{H1154}}`, is a specific term for an **unripe grape**. Derived from an unused root meaning to be sour, its definition emphasizes immaturity. It appears just **1 time** across **1 unique verse**, making its usage in scripture both rare and pointed.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H1154}}` is used in a powerful simile to describe the fate of the wicked. In its only appearance, it illustrates a life cut short before reaching maturity or fruitfulness [[Job 15:33]]. The wicked man is prophesied to "shake off his **unripe grape** as the vine," a metaphor for promise and potential that is violently and prematurely destroyed before it can ripen.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context clarify its meaning:
* `{{H1612}}` **gephen** (a vine): This is the source from which the **unripe grape** `{{H1154}}` grows. The **vine** typically symbolizes God-given fruitfulness, as seen in the promise that it will give its fruit [[Zechariah 8:12]] or in the depiction of a fruitful wife [[Psalms 128:3]].
* `{{H2132}}` **zayith** (olive): Paired with the vine in its singular context, the **olive** is another key symbol of prosperity and life. The image of its flower being cast off parallels the loss of the **unripe grape**, reinforcing the theme of failed potential [[Job 15:33]].
* `{{H2554}}` **châmaç** (to be violent; shake off): This verb describes the destructive action taken against the **unripe grape**. Its core meaning of violence underscores that the loss of potential is a harsh, unnatural act. The same word is used for doing **violence** to the law [[Zephaniah 3:4]].
* `{{H7993}}` **shâlak** (to throw out, down or away): This term is used in parallel to describe how the olive's flower is **cast off** [[Job 15:33]]. It signifies a final rejection, as in the plea not to be **cast away** from God's presence [[Psalms 51:11]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1154}}` is concentrated in its single, vivid application.
* **Metaphor for Judgment:** The primary significance of the **unripe grape** is as a symbol of divine judgment on the wicked. It represents a life or endeavor that is terminated before it can yield a positive outcome, serving as a stark warning.
* **Failed Potential:** The sour, immature state of the grape powerfully illustrates the concept of unfulfilled promise. The imagery in [[Job 15:33]] directly contrasts the potential for a full harvest with the reality of being cut off, a state also lamented when the fruit is not in the vines [[Habakkuk 3:17]].
* **Consequences of Iniquity:** The violent shaking of the **unripe grape** from the vine is presented as the direct consequence of a wicked life. It connects a tangible agricultural failure to the spiritual principle that a life of wrongdoing leads to a fruitless and premature end.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1154}}` **beçer** is a highly specific and potent term. Though used only once, its meaning as an **unripe grape** provides a powerful metaphor for judgment and failed potential. Within its single context [[Job 15:33]], it stands as a memorable image of a life cut short, violently shaken from the vine before reaching maturity, symbolizing the ultimate fate of the wicked whose promise turns to ruin.
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