The Hebrew word bârad, represented by H1258, is a primitive root that means to hail. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible. Its sole usage points directly and literally to the act of hail as a powerful, falling element.
In the biblical narrative, H1258 is used in a prophecy of divine action. The single occurrence is found in Isaiah 32:19, which states, "When it shall hail, coming down on the forest". Here, the word describes a forceful, destructive event from above that strikes down upon a prominent feature of the landscape, signifying judgment or a dramatic humbling.
Several related words from its only context help to clarify its meaning:
- H3381 yârad (to descend): Defined as a primitive root meaning to go downwards or to bring down. It is used alongside H1258 to describe the action of the hail Isaiah 32:19. Its broader use is seen when angels are described as descending on a ladder from heaven Genesis 28:12.
- H3293 yaʻar (forest, wood, honeycomb): This word denotes a forest or thicket of trees. In the passage, the forest is the target of the hail, representing something that will be brought low Isaiah 32:19. The word can also refer to a place of wildness, such as the wood from which two bears emerged 2 Kings 2:24.
The theological weight of H1258 is concentrated entirely in its singular, potent context.
- Agent of Judgment: The word is used to depict a forceful act of divine judgment. The hail falling upon the forest symbolizes a heavenly power being unleashed to strike down that which is high or proud Isaiah 32:19.
- Forceful Descent: Its direct pairing with the verb yârad (to descend) emphasizes the theme of a power coming down from a higher realm to impact the earthly one, a common biblical motif for divine intervention.
- Prelude to Renewal: This act of judgment occurs within a larger prophetic context that speaks of future restoration, where a spirit is poured out and the wilderness becomes a fruitful field Isaiah 32:15. This suggests the humbling action of the hail is a precursor to renewal.
In summary, H1258 is a highly specific term for the act of hailing. Its rarity, with only one appearance in scripture, gives its singular context significant weight. It powerfully illustrates a moment of divine judgment where hail comes down upon a forest, serving as a direct metaphor for a humbling force that prepares the way for transformation.
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