### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **batstsôreth**, represented by `{{H1226}}`, signifies a **drought** or **dearth**. Derived from a root meaning "restraint," it specifically refers to a restraint of rain. It is a rare term, appearing only **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Both occurrences of `{{H1226}}` are found in the writings of Jeremiah. In one instance, the word sets the entire stage for a divine message, where the "word{H1697} of the LORD{H3068}" comes to the prophet `Jeremiah` `{{H3414}}` specifically concerning the **dearth** [[Jeremiah 14:1]]. In the other, it is used metaphorically to describe a time of trial. A person who trusts in God is compared to a `tree` `{{H6086}}` planted by `waters` `{{H4325}}` that is not `careful` `{{H1672}}` in the year of **drought** and does not `cease` `{{H4185}}` from yielding `fruit` `{{H6529}}` [[Jeremiah 17:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context and impact of a drought:
* `{{H2527}}` **chôm** (heat): This word means `heat; heat, to be hot (warm)`. It is a condition that naturally accompanies a drought, yet the tree planted by the river does not `see` `{{H7200}}` it when it `cometh` `{{H935}}` [[Jeremiah 17:8]].
* `{{H1672}}` **dâʼag** (be anxious): This term means to `be afraid (careful, sorry), take thought`. A person who is spiritually nourished will not be `careful` `{{H1672}}`, or anxious, during the year of `drought` `{{H1226}}`, showing a state of trust that overcomes fear [[Jeremiah 17:8]].
* `{{H6529}}` **pᵉrîy** (fruit): Meaning `fruit (literally or figuratively)`, this represents the productivity and reward that are threatened by a drought. For the one who trusts in God, yielding `fruit` `{{H6529}}` does not `cease` `{{H4185}}` even in such difficult times [[Jeremiah 17:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1226}}` is centered on the contrast between physical hardship and spiritual faithfulness.
* **An Occasion for God's Word:** The `dearth` `{{H1226}}` in the land prompts a direct `word` `{{H1697}}` from the `LORD` `{{H3068}}`, indicating that such calamities are not merely natural events but moments for divine communication and judgment [[Jeremiah 14:1]].
* **A Test of Spiritual Foundation:** The "year of `drought`" `{{H1226}}` serves as a metaphor for a period of testing. The one whose `roots` `{{H8328}}` are spread by the `river` `{{H3105}}` is proven resilient, as their source of life is not dependent on external conditions [[Jeremiah 17:8]].
* **Symbol of Unfailing Provision:** The image of a `tree` `{{H6086}}` whose `leaf` `{{H5929}}` remains `green` `{{H7488}}` during a `drought` `{{H1226}}` powerfully illustrates God as an inexhaustible source. Trust in Him provides sustenance that allows one to flourish when worldly resources have failed.
### Summary
In summary, **batstsôreth** `{{H1226}}` is a focused term used exclusively by Jeremiah to convey the severe condition of `drought` or `dearth`. While limited in use, it functions significantly as both a literal catalyst for a prophetic message and a potent symbol for a time of trial. It starkly contrasts the vulnerability of the world with the unwavering, life-giving security found in the `LORD` `{{H3068}}`.
TRV