### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **gâraph**, represented by `{{H1640}}`, is a primitive root defined as **to bear off violently; sweep away**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, making it a highly specific term used to describe a powerful and overwhelming action. Its singular usage captures a moment of dramatic, forceful removal.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole biblical context for `{{H1640}}` is in the Song of Deborah, a victory hymn celebrating Israel's deliverance. The verse states, "The river of Kishon **swept them away**" [[Judges 5:21]]. Here, the word vividly portrays a natural element, the river Kishon `{{H7028}}`, acting as a divine instrument to destroy the enemy's army. The action is not merely a flood but a violent and decisive event that underscores the totality of the victory, which is further emphasized by the declaration, "O my soul `{{H5315}}`, thou hast trodden down `{{H1869}}` strength `{{H5797}}`."
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context in [[Judges 5:21]] illuminate the meaning of `{{H1640}}`:
* `{{H5158}}` **nachal** (a stream, especially a winter torrent; brook, flood, river, stream, valley): This word identifies the agent that performs the "sweeping away." While it acts as a force of judgment in Judges, it can also be a source of divine pleasure and provision, as when God makes his people drink from the "river of thy pleasures" [[Psalms 36:8]].
* `{{H7028}}` **Qîyshôwn** (winding; Kishon, a river of Palestine): This specifies the exact location of the event. The river Kishon is consistently portrayed as a key strategic site, where Sisera's army was gathered before its defeat [[Judges 4:13]] and where Elijah later slew the prophets of Baal [[1 Kings 18:40]].
* `{{H1869}}` **dârak** (to tread; by implication, to walk): Used in the same verse, this word describes the triumphant response of Deborah's soul. This act of "treading down" strength parallels the violent action of the river, linking the natural event to a personal declaration of victory. The word can also mean to lead, as when God leads his people in the right way [[Isaiah 48:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1640}}` is concentrated in its single, dramatic appearance.
* **Divine Judgment through Nature:** The word demonstrates how God can utilize the natural world to execute His judgment. The river `{{H5158}}` Kishon `{{H7028}}` doesn't act randomly; it becomes a tool to "bear off violently" the enemies of Israel, fulfilling a divine purpose [[Judges 5:21]].
* **Irresistible Power:** The definition "to sweep away" conveys an overwhelming and final force. This mirrors the nature of God's power `{{H5797}}`, which is described as a "strong tower" [[Proverbs 18:10]] and a source of salvation [[Exodus 15:2]]. The enemy is completely unable to resist the force that confronts them.
* **A Symbol of Overwhelming Victory:** The event described by `{{H1640}}` serves as a historical symbol of God's ability to deliver His people. The flowing water that brings destruction to the wicked is a theme seen elsewhere, as in the call to "let judgment run down as waters, and righteousness as a mighty stream `{{H5158}}`" [[Amos 5:24]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1640}}` is a rare but impactful word. Its singular use in scripture is not an incidental detail but a powerful descriptor that captures the essence of a divinely orchestrated victory. Through the violent action of the Kishon river, **gâraph** illustrates the theme of God's absolute power over His enemies, His use of creation to fulfill His will, and the finality of His judgment. It shows how a single word can perfectly encapsulate a key moment of redemptive history.
TRV