### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **bârîyach**, represented by `{{H1281}}`, holds several distinct meanings, including **crooked**, **noble**, and **piercing**. Derived from a root meaning "a fugitive," it is used to describe a fleeing serpent and a constellation. It appears only **3 times** in **3 unique verses**, making each usage significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The uses of `{{H1281}}` are varied across its three appearances. In [[Job 26:13]], it describes the **crooked** serpent `{{H5175}}` that God’s hand has formed `{{H2342}}` in the heavens `{{H8064}}`, suggesting a celestial body or constellation. In Isaiah, the word is used twice with different meanings. It describes the "piercing" `{{H1281}}` serpent `{{H5175}}`, identified as leviathan `{{H3882}}`, which the LORD will punish with His strong `{{H2389}}` sword `{{H2719}}` [[Isaiah 27:1]]. In contrast, it refers to the **nobles** `{{H1281}}` of Babylon, whom God will bring down `{{H3381}}`, their cry being heard in the ships `{{H591}}` [[Isaiah 43:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which `{{H1281}}` appears:
* `{{H5175}}` **nâchâsh** (serpent): Defined as "a snake (from its hiss); serpent," this word is the subject described by `{{H1281}}` as both "piercing" and "crooked." It is present in God's creative act in the heavens [[Job 26:13]] and as the object of His judgment [[Isaiah 27:1]].
* `{{H3882}}` **livyâthân** (leviathan): This term for a "wreathed animal" or "sea-monster" is directly identified as the "piercing" `{{H1281}}` serpent in [[Isaiah 27:1]]. It often symbolizes a powerful, chaotic force that is subject to God's authority.
* `{{H3381}}` **yârad** (to descend): This root, meaning "to descend" or "bring down," describes the fate of the "nobles" `{{H1281}}` of Babylon. Its use demonstrates God's power to lower the exalted [[Isaiah 43:14]].
* `{{H6129}}` **ʻăqallâthôwn** (crooked): This word, meaning "tortuous," is used in parallel with `{{H1281}}` to describe the serpent leviathan, reinforcing its winding or twisting nature [[Isaiah 27:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H1281}}` centers on God's sovereignty over all realms of power.
* **Divine Judgment:** In Isaiah, the word is tied to divine punishment. The LORD's "sore and great and strong sword" will punish the "piercing" `{{H1281}}` serpent [[Isaiah 27:1]], and He will bring down the "nobles" `{{H1281}}` of Babylon [[Isaiah 43:14]], showing His authority over both mythical and political powers.
* **Creative Authority:** The appearance in Job shifts the focus to creation. God's spirit `{{H7307}}` garnished the heavens `{{H8064}}`, and His hand "formed" the "crooked" `{{H1281}}` serpent [[Job 26:13]]. This places a seemingly chaotic entity within the scope of God's purposeful and sovereign creative work.
* **Symbol of Opposition:** Whether as a "piercing serpent" or the "nobles" of a pagan empire, the figures described by `{{H1281}}` represent forces that are ultimately subdued by God's power, reinforcing His ultimate supremacy.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1281}}` is a rare and multifaceted word that contributes to significant biblical themes. While its base meaning relates to a fugitive, it is applied diversely to a celestial serpent, a monstrous foe, and human nobility. Through these varied applications, the term **bârîyach** serves to illustrate God's absolute power, whether in the act of creation [[Job 26:13]] or in executing judgment upon powers that stand in opposition to Him ([[Isaiah 27:1]], [[Isaiah 43:14]]).
TRV