### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **bâraq**, represented by `{{H1299}}`, is a primitive root defined as **to lighten (lightning); cast forth**. This specific verb appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**, highlighting a very focused and potent meaning within the biblical text. Its rarity underscores its use to describe a specific and powerful divine action.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole instance of `{{H1299}}` is found in a plea for divine intervention in [[Psalms 144:6]]. The psalmist asks God to "**Cast forth** lightning, and scatter them: shoot out thine arrows, and destroy them." In this context, `{{H1299}}` is an appeal for God to unleash the power of a storm as a weapon against enemies. The action of "casting forth" is directly associated with lightning `{{H1300}}` and divine arrows `{{H2671}}`, portraying God as a warrior who commands the forces of nature to achieve victory.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words found in the same verse illuminate the function and impact of `{{H1299}}`:
* `{{H1300}}` **bârâq** (lightning; a gleam; a flashing sword): This noun is the object that is "cast forth" by the verb `{{H1299}}`. It appears in contexts of God's powerful presence, such as at Mount Sinai [[Exodus 19:16]] and in descriptions of divine beings [[Daniel 10:6]].
* `{{H6327}}` **pûwts** (to dash in pieces, especially to disperse; scatter): This word describes the intended result of God casting forth lightning. The purpose is to **scatter** the enemy, as requested in [[Psalms 144:6]] and seen in God's judgment against those who built the tower of Babel [[Genesis 11:4]].
* `{{H2000}}` **hâmam** (to put in commotion; to disturb, drive, destroy): This term further defines the consequence of God's action, moving from scattering to outright destruction. It is used to describe God bringing confusion and ruin upon the enemies of Israel [[Joshua 10:10]].
* `{{H2671}}` **chêts** (an arrow; a wound; of God, a thunderbolt): This word is used in parallel with lightning in [[Psalms 144:6]]. God's arrows and lightning are depicted as interchangeable weapons, with His arrow going forth "as the lightning" [[Zechariah 9:14]].
* `{{H7971}}` **shâlach** (to send away, for, or out): This verb, translated as "shoot out" in [[Psalms 144:6]], parallels the action of `{{H1299}}`. It is frequently used for God sending His word [[Psalms 107:20]], His agents [[Isaiah 61:1]], or His power.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1299}}` is concentrated in its singular, powerful image.
* **Divine Warfare:** The verb is used exclusively in the context of holy war. It portrays God not as a distant deity, but as an active combatant who uses the raw power of creation to execute judgment and defend His people [[Psalms 144:6]].
* **Sovereignty Over Nature:** The ability to "cast forth lightning" is a clear declaration of God's absolute command over the natural world. He is the one who "maketh lightnings for the rain" ([[Psalms 135:7]], [[Jeremiah 10:13]]), using them to accomplish His will.
* **Swift and Decisive Judgment:** Lightning is sudden, irresistible, and overwhelming. The use of `{{H1299}}` conveys the immediacy and finality of God's intervention. The action is intended to instantly **scatter** `{{H6327}}` and **destroy** `{{H2000}}` the opposition.
### Summary
In summary, while **bâraq** `{{H1299}}` is one of the rarest verbs in the Hebrew Bible, its meaning is unmistakable. It encapsulates the concept of God as a divine warrior, wielding the very elements of creation as weapons. Its singular appearance in a prayer for deliverance highlights a profound trust in God's power to act decisively and supernaturally on behalf of those who call on Him, unleashing His might to bring sudden and total victory.
TRV