from an unused root meaning to be gummy; honey (from its stickiness); by analogy, syrup; honey(-comb).
Transliteration:dᵉbash
Pronunciation:deb-ash'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H1706}}` (dᵉbash) derives from an unused root, conveying the primary sense of "to be gummy" or "sticky." From this root, its core meaning emerges as "honey," specifically referring to the sweet, sticky substance produced by bees. By analogy, it can also encompass "syrup," particularly fruit syrup, due to similar physical properties and sweetness. The word inherently carries connotations of sweetness, viscosity, and natural purity. While primarily denoting the processed product, it can also imply the "honeycomb" as the source or container of the honey.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{H1706}}` appears frequently in the Hebrew Bible, often in contexts that highlight its value, pleasantness, and symbolic significance.
One of the most prominent uses is in the description of the Promised Land as "a land flowing with milk and honey" ([[Exodus 3:8]], [[Numbers 13:27]], [[Deuteronomy 6:3]]). Here, `{{H1706}}` symbolizes abundance, fertility, and divine blessing, contrasting sharply with the barrenness of the wilderness. This phrase encapsulates the richness and prosperity God promised to His people.
As a food item, honey is depicted as a source of sustenance and delight. Jonathan's strength was renewed after tasting honey in the wilderness ([[1 Samuel 14:25-27]]), and it was among the provisions brought to David's weary men ([[2 Samuel 17:29]]). Samson found honey in a lion's carcass, a testament to its unexpected discovery and inherent goodness ([[Judges 14:8-9]]).
Figuratively, `{{H1706}}` is used to describe the pleasantness and sweetness of God's word and wisdom. The psalmist declares God's statutes to be "sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb" ([[Psalm 19:10]]), and again, "How sweet are Your words to my taste! Sweeter than honey to my mouth!" ([[Psalm 119:103]]). Similarly, wisdom is likened to honey in [[Proverbs 24:13]], urging one to "Eat honey, my son, for it is good." The pleasantness of speech is also compared to honey ([[Proverbs 16:24]]).
However, the Bible also offers cautionary notes regarding `{{H1706}}`. It was explicitly forbidden as an ingredient in certain fire offerings to the Lord, particularly burnt offerings ([[Leviticus 2:11]]), likely due to its fermenting properties which could symbolize decay or impurity in a sacrificial context. Proverbs warns against overindulgence: "Have you found honey? Eat only what you need, Lest you be filled with it and vomit" ([[Proverbs 25:16]]), and "It is not good to eat much honey" ([[Proverbs 25:27]]), teaching moderation even with good things.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept of `{{H1706}}` is frequently intertwined with other significant biblical terms and ideas:
* **Milk (חָלָב - chalav, `{{H2461}}`):** Almost invariably paired with `{{H1706}}` in the phrase "land flowing with milk and honey," symbolizing agricultural richness and divine provision.
* **Manna (מָן - man, `{{H4478}}`):** The miraculous bread from heaven is described as tasting "like wafers with honey" ([[Exodus 16:31]]), linking divine sustenance with the pleasantness of honey.
* **Sweetness (מָתֹק - matoq, `{{H4985}}`):** The inherent quality of honey is often used as a benchmark for pleasantness, delight, and goodness in various contexts.
* **Wisdom and God's Law:** As seen in Psalms and Proverbs, `{{H1706}}` serves as a metaphor for the desirable, life-giving, and delightful nature of divine wisdom and commandments.
* **Abundance and Blessing:** Beyond the literal foodstuff, `{{H1706}}` is a potent symbol of prosperity, fertility, and the overflowing goodness of God's covenant promises.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H1706}}` is rich and multifaceted:
Firstly, it serves as a powerful symbol of **divine provision and covenant faithfulness**. The promise of a "land flowing with milk and honey" is not merely a description of fertile land but a pledge of God's abundant care and blessing upon His chosen people. It represents the fulfillment of His promises and the tangible manifestation of His grace, transforming a people from wilderness wanderers to inhabitants of a prosperous land.
Secondly, `{{H1706}}` profoundly illustrates the **goodness and desirability of God's word and wisdom**. The comparison of God's statutes to honey highlights their inherent pleasantness, their ability to nourish the soul, and their capacity to bring delight and clarity. This teaches that obedience to God's commands is not burdensome but sweet and life-giving, a source of true joy and understanding.
Thirdly, the nuanced treatment of `{{H1706}}` in sacrificial law ([[Leviticus 2:11]]) offers a subtle theological point about **purity and separation**. While honey is inherently good and pure in its natural state, its fermenting properties rendered it unsuitable for certain fire offerings, which demanded unblemished and non-decaying elements. This distinction underscores the meticulousness of God's holiness and the specific requirements for approaching Him in worship.
Finally, the wisdom literature's caution against overindulgence in honey ([[Proverbs 25:16]], [[Proverbs 25:27]]) carries a broader theological lesson on **moderation and self-control**. Even good things, when pursued excessively, can become detrimental. This teaches a principle of balance and discernment in all aspects of life, including the pursuit of pleasure and material blessings.
### Summary
The Hebrew word `{{H1706}}` (dᵉbash), meaning "honey" or "syrup," is a deeply significant term in the biblical narrative. Rooted in its physical properties of stickiness and sweetness, it primarily functions as a powerful symbol of **divine abundance, blessing, and the promised land**. It underscores God's generous provision and covenant faithfulness. Metaphorically, `{{H1706}}` vividly portrays the **inherent goodness, pleasantness, and life-giving nature of God's word and wisdom**, inviting believers to delight in His statutes. While a symbol of natural purity and sustenance, its exclusion from certain offerings highlights the theological distinction between natural goodness and the specific demands of divine holiness in worship. Furthermore, biblical proverbs use `{{H1706}}` to impart practical wisdom on **moderation and the dangers of excess**, even concerning things inherently good. Thus, `{{H1706}}` is a multifaceted word, embodying physical sustenance, spiritual nourishment, and profound theological truths about God's character and human responsibility.
TRV