### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **gâmar**, represented by `{{H1584}}`, is a primitive root meaning to end, either in completion or failure. It is used to convey concepts like ceasing, coming to an end, failing, perfecting, or performing. It appears a total of **5 times** in **5 unique verses** within the scriptures.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The use of `{{H1584}}` highlights a contrast between divine action and human frailty. On one hand, it describes God's power to bring his purposes to completion, as when the psalmist declares that God is the one who **performeth** all things for him [[Psalms 57:2]]. In a similar vein of divine faithfulness, it is used to express confidence that the LORD will **perfect** that which concerns the believer [[Psalms 138:8]]. On the other hand, it can describe a state of desperation or loss, such as when the godly man **ceaseth** [[Psalms 12:1]] or when it is questioned whether God's promise will **fail** for evermore [[Psalms 77:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help frame the context of completion and cessation:
* `{{H3559}}` **kûwn**: Meaning to set up, establish, or render sure, this word is used in contrast to the finality of `{{H1584}}`. In a plea for wickedness to **come to an end**, the psalmist also asks God to **establish** the just [[Psalms 7:9]].
* `{{H656}}` **ʼâphêç**: Meaning to disappear or fail, this term is used alongside `{{H1584}}` to express a fear of abandonment. The psalmist asks if God's mercy is **clean gone** forever and if His promise will **fail** [[Psalms 77:8]].
* `{{H7503}}` **râphâh**: Meaning to slacken, fail, or forsake, this word is used in a plea for God's continued action. After stating the LORD will **perfect** that which concerns him, the writer asks God not to **forsake** the works of His hands [[Psalms 138:8]].
* `{{H974}}` **bâchan**: This word means to test or investigate. It is used in the context of God bringing wickedness to an end, noting that the righteous God **trieth** the hearts and reins [[Psalms 7:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H1584}}` is centered on the finality of outcomes, whether orchestrated by God or experienced by humanity.
* **Divine Faithfulness to Complete:** The word underscores God's role as the one who finishes what He starts. He is the one who **performeth** all things for the believer and **perfects** His work in them, a promise of His unwavering commitment ([[Psalms 57:2]], [[Psalms 138:8]]).
* **The Cessation of Evil:** `{{H1584}}` is used in prayers for divine justice, specifically asking for evil to **come to an end**. This points to a theological hope that God will ultimately conclude the reign of wickedness and establish righteousness [[Psalms 7:9]].
* **The Reality of Failure and Loss:** The word also captures the human experience of things ending. It describes the loss of the godly and the fear that promises might **fail**, reflecting the struggles and laments found within a fallen world ([[Psalms 12:1]], [[Psalms 77:8]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1584}}` encapsulates the dual nature of "ending." It speaks powerfully of God's capacity to **perfect** and **perform** His sovereign will, bringing His plans to a complete and successful conclusion. Simultaneously, it gives voice to the human perspective, where endings can signify failure, loss, and the cessation of what is good. This makes **gâmar** a vital term for understanding both divine assurance and human lament in scripture.
TRV