### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **gôwb**, represented by `{{H1462}}`, primarily refers to the **locust** or **grasshopper**. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. The term's definition connects it to the insect's larval stage, describing it as "grubbing," and it can also carry the idiomatic sense of **great**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical occurrences, `{{H1462}}` is used to illustrate divine action and to serve as a powerful simile. In Amos, the prophet is shown a vision where God "formed **grasshoppers**" at a precise moment, just after "the king's mowings" [[Amos 7:1]], indicating a divinely orchestrated event. In Nahum, the term is used to compare Assyrian captains to "**great grasshoppers**," which are numerous and camp in hedges on a cold day but quickly "flee away" when the sun rises, leaving no trace [[Nahum 3:17]]. This imagery highlights their temporary and unreliable nature.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for the meaning of `{{H1462}}`:
* `{{H3335}}` **yâtsar** (to mould into a form; especially as apotter; figuratively, to determine... fashion, form, frame, make(-r), potter, purpose): This verb is used in [[Amos 7:1]], where God "**formed**" the grasshoppers. It emphasizes God's sovereign power as the creator, the same verb used to describe the forming of man [[Genesis 2:7]] and Israel [[Isaiah 43:1]].
* `{{H1488}}` **gêz** (a fleece (as shorn); also mown grass; fleece, mowing, mown grass): This word connects the appearance of the grasshoppers in [[Amos 7:1]] to a specific agricultural event, "the king's **mowings**," highlighting the precise timing of God's action.
* `{{H697}}` **ʼarbeh** (a locust (from its rapid increase); grasshopper, locust): Used in parallel with `{{H1462}}` in [[Nahum 3:17]], this term reinforces the imagery of a massive swarm. It is frequently used to describe overwhelming numbers, such as the Midianite army appearing "like **grasshoppers** for multitude" [[Judges 7:12]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{H1462}}` carries specific theological weight in its contexts.
* **Instrument of Divine Purpose:** In Amos, the grasshoppers are not a random plague but are intentionally "**formed**" `{{H3335}}` by God at a specific time. This portrays nature as an instrument in God's hands, used to carry out His will [[Amos 7:1]].
* **Symbol of Transient Power:** The comparison in Nahum uses "**great grasshoppers**" to symbolize a formidable human force that is ultimately fleeting. Their strength is conditional and disappears under pressure, illustrating the unreliability of human power [[Nahum 3:17]].
* **Image of Abundance:** Paired with another word for locust `{{H697}}`, **gôwb** helps build a picture of an overwhelming number of individuals, whether they are insects or, metaphorically, military captains.
### Summary
In summary, while **gôwb** `{{H1462}}` appears only twice, its usage is significant. It is more than just a name for an insect; it functions as a theological symbol. It represents a force created by God for a specific purpose and serves as a metaphor for numerous but transient human power that vanishes under scrutiny. Through its context, `{{H1462}}` demonstrates how even a simple element of creation can be used in Scripture to communicate profound truths about God's sovereignty and the fleeting nature of worldly strength.
TRV