### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **gûwsh**, represented by `{{H1487}}`, means a **mass of earth** or **clod**. This specific term appears only **1 time** in the entire Bible, making its single usage particularly impactful. It is used to describe a feature of a severe physical affliction, painting a graphic picture of a body covered in sores.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{H1487}}` is found in Job's lament over his profound suffering. In [[Job 7:5]], he cries out, "My flesh is clothed with worms and **clods** of dust; my skin is broken, and become loathsome." Here, **clods** are paired with worms to describe the horrific state of his skin, illustrating a body so afflicted that it seems to be covered in dirt and decay.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the immediate context of [[Job 7:5]] illuminate the meaning of `{{H1487}}`:
* `{{H1320}}` **bâsâr** (flesh): This is the word for the **flesh** that is afflicted. Job's suffering is not abstract but deeply physical, affecting his very body [[Job 7:5]].
* `{{H6083}}` **ʻâphâr** (dust): The **clods** are made of **dust**, directly linking Job's condition to the earth itself. This word is famously used to describe the material from which man was formed [[Genesis 2:7]].
* `{{H7415}}` **rimmâh** (worm): This term for **worm** or maggot is used in parallel with **clods**, together forming a grotesque image of decay and uncleanness covering Job's body [[Job 7:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1487}}`, despite its single use, is significant in its context:
* **The Physicality of Suffering:** The term gives a tangible, earthy reality to Job's suffering. His affliction is not just internal; it manifests physically in a way that is repulsive and dehumanizing, as his skin is broken `{{H7280}}` and loathsome `{{H3988}}`.
* **Human Frailty and Mortality:** A "clod of dust" powerfully connects man's afflicted state back to his origin. It is a stark reminder of humanity's creation from **dust** `{{H6083}}` and eventual return to it, highlighting the fragility of the human body [[Genesis 2:7]].
* **Imagery of Decay:** Paired with **worms** `{{H7415}}`, the word creates a vivid picture of decay. This imagery is used elsewhere to describe the final state of the dead, portraying Job as one who is experiencing a living death as the worms cover him in the dust [[Job 21:26]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1487}}` **gûwsh** is a highly specific and rare biblical term. Its sole appearance in the book of Job provides one of the most graphic descriptions of physical suffering in all of scripture. While simply meaning a **clod** of earth, it functions as a powerful symbol of human frailty, the horrifying reality of physical decay, and the depths of despair a person can experience. It demonstrates how a single, carefully chosen word can convey immense theological weight regarding the nature of suffering and mortality.
TRV