### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **dᵉbêlâh**, represented by `{{H1690}}`, refers to a **cake (lump) of figs**. It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible. The term derives from a root meaning to press together, describing a dense cake made from figs that was used as both a concentrated food source and a medicinal application.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H1690}}` is used in two primary contexts: provision and healing. As a provision, it is listed among the abundant supplies Abigail{H26} brought to David's men [[1 Samuel 25:18]] and among the foods brought to David's army in a time of celebration [[1 Chronicles 12:40]]. A piece{H6400} of a **cake** `{{H1690}}` of figs was given to an exhausted Egyptian, and after he had eaten{H398}, his spirit{H7307} returned [[1 Samuel 30:12]]. Medicinally, the prophet Isaiah{H3470} commanded that a **lump** `{{H1690}}` of figs be taken and laid as a plaster on a boil{H7822} to bring about recovery{H2421} ([[2 Kings 20:7]], [[Isaiah 38:21]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context and use of **dᵉbêlâh**:
* `{{H8384}}` **tᵉʼên** (the fig (tree or fruit)): This is the source fruit from which a cake of figs is made. The connection is explicit when Isaiah{H3470} prescribes a lump{H1690} of figs{H8384} for healing [[Isaiah 38:21]].
* `{{H6778}}` **tsammûwq** (bunch (cluster) of raisins): This is another form of preserved fruit often listed alongside cakes of figs as a vital provision. They appear together in the supplies offered by Abigail{H26} and those brought to David's men ([[1 Samuel 25:18]], [[1 Chronicles 12:40]]).
* `{{H7822}}` **shᵉchîyn** (boil): This is the ailment that a **dᵉbêlâh** is used to treat. The application of a fig cake directly onto the **boil** highlights its role as a tangible instrument of healing in the narrative [[2 Kings 20:7]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H1690}}` is seen in its practical and symbolic applications.
* **Sustenance and Restoration:** A **dᵉbêlâh** represents a compact and life-sustaining food. Its ability to revive a man who had gone without food{H3899} and water{H4325} for three{H7969} days{H3117} and three{H7969} nights{H3915} underscores its restorative power [[1 Samuel 30:12]].
* **Instrument of Healing:** The use of a **lump** `{{H1690}}` of figs as a poultice shows how God can work through common, natural elements to bring about miraculous recovery{H2421}. It serves as a physical means for a divine act of healing [[Isaiah 38:21]].
* **Symbol of Abundance and Joy:** In the gathering of supporters for David, cakes{H1690} of figs were part of the provisions brought abundantly{H7230} because there was joy{H8057} in Israel{H3478}, linking the food to times of unity and celebration [[1 Chronicles 12:40]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1690}}` is more than just a reference to a food item. As a **cake (lump) of figs**, it functions in Scripture as a vital source of sustenance, an instrument for healing, and a symbol of joyful provision. It illustrates how a simple, everyday product can be central to narratives of diplomacy, physical restoration, and national celebration.
TRV