### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼahab**, represented by `{{H158}}`, refers to **affection** or a **love(-r)**. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. The term is defined as affection that can be understood in either a good or a bad sense, a duality reflected in its specific scriptural applications.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H158}}` illustrates two opposing forms of affection. In a negative context, the prophet Hosea condemns Ephraim's unfaithfulness, stating the nation has "hired **lovers**" [[Hosea 8:9]]. This points to faithless alliances and a turn away from God. Conversely, Proverbs uses the term positively to praise a devoted wife, describing her as a "**loving** hind" [[Proverbs 5:19]]. This image portrays affection as a cherished and righteous aspect of marital faithfulness.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{H158}}`:
* `{{H160}}` **ʼahăbâh** (love): This feminine form carries the same meaning of affection. It is used in Proverbs to describe the **love** of a wife that should captivate her husband [[Proverbs 5:19]].
* `{{H8566}}` **tânâh** (hire): This root word means to bargain with or hire. It is directly linked to the negative use of `{{H158}}` in Hosea, where Ephraim is condemned because it has **hired** lovers [[Hosea 8:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H158}}` arises from its sharp contrast between proper and improper affection.
* **Illicit Affection:** The term is used to illustrate spiritual adultery. When Ephraim "hired **lovers**," it symbolized Israel's sin of seeking security from foreign powers rather than trusting in God [[Hosea 8:9]].
* **Covenantal Faithfulness:** The image of the "**loving** hind" upholds the sanctity of singular devotion within marriage. This represents the ideal of faithful, exclusive love that honors a covenant relationship [[Proverbs 5:19]].
* **Divine Love:** While `{{H158}}` is not used for God, its feminine counterpart, `{{H160}}`, is foundational to understanding God's character. The LORD’s redemption of Israel from Egypt is presented as an act motivated by His **love** `{{H160}}` for His people [[Deuteronomy 7:8]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H158}}` **ʼahab** is a concise term that encapsulates the profound biblical distinction between two kinds of affection. Though it appears only twice, its usage starkly contrasts the faithful love within marriage [[Proverbs 5:19]] with the treacherous, hired love of a spiritually unfaithful nation [[Hosea 8:9]]. Ultimately, **ʼahab** demonstrates that the value of affection is determined by its object, framing love as either a sacred expression of loyalty or a symbol of betrayal.
TRV