### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **dᵉʼâbâh**, represented by `{{H1670}}`, refers to **sorrow** or pining. Based on its root, it properly means pining, and by analogy, fear or sorrow. It is an exceptionally rare term, appearing only **1 times** across **1 unique verses** in the entire Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{H1670}}` appears in the description of a powerful being in [[Job 41:22]]. The verse states that while strength `{{H5797}}` remains in its neck, **sorrow** `{{H1670}}` is actively "turned into joy" `{{H1750}}` before it. This context establishes **dᵉʼâbâh** not as a permanent state, but as something that is overcome and transformed in the presence of immense power.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words found in its only context help define the meaning of `{{H1670}}`:
* `{{H1750}}` **dûwts** (be turned): This word describes the action performed upon **sorrow** in [[Job 41:22]], where it is "turned into joy." It signifies a dynamic reversal of emotional states.
* `{{H3885}}` **lûwn** (remain): In contrast to the fleeting nature of **sorrow**, this word is used to describe strength that "remaineth" [[Job 41:22]]. It implies a state of permanence or endurance, as seen when one is to "abide" satisfied [[Proverbs 19:23]].
* `{{H5797}}` **ʻôz** (strength): This is the quality that remains, standing in opposition to the transmutable nature of **dᵉʼâbâh**. It is a strength often associated with God, who is a refuge and **strength** [[Psalms 46:1]] and whose name is a "strong tower" [[Proverbs 18:10]].
* `{{H6440}}` **pânîym** (before): This indicates the location or presence in which sorrow is transformed. The transformation happens "before him" [[Job 41:22]]. This term is frequently used to mean being in the presence of another, such as seeking God's "face" [[2 Chronicles 7:14]].
* `{{H6677}}` **tsavvâʼr** (neck): This is the physical location where strength resides in [[Job 41:22]]. The **neck** can be a symbol of carrying burdens or a yoke [[Isaiah 10:27]], making the presence of strength there particularly significant.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1670}}` is derived entirely from its single, powerful context.
* **The Transformation of Sorrow:** The primary lesson from the use of **dᵉʼâbâh** is its impermanence. It is not an enduring state but one that can be actively "turned" `{{H1750}}` into joy, highlighting a theme of redemptive reversal.
* **Strength Overcoming Sorrow:** The verse contrasts the transformable nature of **sorrow** with the abiding nature of strength (`ʻôz`, `{{H5797}}`). This strength, often ascribed to the LORD in other contexts [[Psalms 28:7]], is presented as the enduring quality that displaces sorrow.
* **The Power of Presence:** The transformation of **sorrow** occurs "before" (`pânîym`, `{{H6440}}`) this mighty being. This suggests that nearness to overwhelming power and majesty is what causes sorrow to dissipate and become joy.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1670}}` provides a concise and potent illustration of **sorrow**. Though it appears only once, its usage in [[Job 41:22]] defines it by its relationship to opposing forces. It is not an absolute state but something that is vanquished and transformed by abiding strength. The surrounding words in the passage are crucial, showing that in the presence of great power, sorrow is turned into joy, making `{{H1670}}` a powerful symbol of hope and transformation.
TRV