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.
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.
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.
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.
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