### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **dabbârâh**, represented by `{{H1703}}`, is an intensive term for **word**. It is an exceedingly rare word, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, marking its usage as highly specific and contextually significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{H1703}}` is in [[Deuteronomy 33:3]]. The verse describes God's people in a posture of intimate discipleship: "Yea, he loved the people; all his saints are in thy hand: and they sat down at thy feet; every one shall receive of thy **words**." This context does not depict a casual or distant communication, but rather one where the recipients are positioned in humility and reverence to accept divine instruction directly.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context in [[Deuteronomy 33:3]] illuminate the meaning of **dabbârâh**:
* `{{H5375}}` **nâsâʼ** (to lift, receive): This is the action associated with the "words." The people are to **receive** what God offers. The word's meaning also extends to concepts like forgiving or pardoning iniquity [[Micah 7:18]].
* `{{H7272}}` **regel** (a foot): This term establishes the physical posture of the recipients. By sitting at God's **feet**, they demonstrate submission and a readiness to learn [[Deuteronomy 33:3]]. It signifies a position of being under divine authority.
* `{{H2245}}` **châbab** (to love): This verb provides the motivation for the communication. The giving of these "words" is an act rooted in affection, as the verse begins, "Yea, he **loved** the people" [[Deuteronomy 33:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1703}}` is derived entirely from its singular, powerful context.
* **A Posture for Revelation:** The act of receiving God's **words** is inseparable from the posture of sitting at His **feet** `{{H7272}}`. This illustrates that divine truth is best received from a place of humility and reverence.
* **Instruction as an Act of Love:** The communication is framed by God's love (`châbab`) for his people (`ʻam`). His **words** are therefore not just decrees, but expressions of a cherishing relationship.
* **Active Reception:** The people are described as those who "shall **receive**" `{{H5375}}` the words. This highlights that divine communication is a cooperative act that requires an open and willing recipient to take hold of what is given.
### Summary
In summary, while **dabbârâh** `{{H1703}}` is used only once, its appearance in [[Deuteronomy 33:3]] provides a profound model for the divine-human relationship. It elevates the concept of "word" beyond mere information to an intimate exchange rooted in God's love, received in a posture of humble discipleship, and actively taken up by His people.
TRV