### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **dûwb**, represented by `{{H1727}}`, is a primitive root used to convey the idea of moping or pining away in **sorrow**. It is a rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** within the scriptures. Its singular use provides a focused and potent image of deep emotional distress.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H1727}}` is in [[Leviticus 26:16]], within a list of curses God will **appoint** `{{H6485}}` upon Israel for disobedience. Here, it describes a profound internal suffering that accompanies physical ailments. The verse states that God will bring **terror** `{{H928}}`, **consumption** `{{H7829}}`, and **burning ague** `{{H6920}}`, which will **consume** `{{H3615}}` the **eyes** `{{H5869}}` and "cause **sorrow** `{{H1727}}` of **heart** `{{H5315}}`." This places the sorrow not as a simple emotion, but as a consuming consequence of divine judgment.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context in [[Leviticus 26:16]] illuminate the meaning of this sorrow:
* `{{H5315}}` **nephesh** (a breathing creature, i.e. animal of (abstractly) vitality... soul): The sorrow described by `{{H1727}}` is specifically of the **heart** or **soul** [[Leviticus 26:16]]. This term points to the seat of life, appetite, and emotion, indicating that the pining is a deeply personal and life-draining affliction.
* `{{H3615}}` **kâlâh** (to end... be finished, perish... consume): This word is used in the same verse to describe the effect of the plagues on the **eyes** [[Leviticus 26:16]]. It signifies a complete ending or failing, paralleling the internal "sorrow of heart" with an external, physical consumption.
* `{{H928}}` **behâlâh** (panic, destruction; terror, trouble): This is the first punishment listed in the verse, establishing a context of sudden panic and ruin. The **sorrow** `{{H1727}}` is thus part of a broader experience of divinely appointed **terror** [[Leviticus 26:16]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1727}}` is tied entirely to its single, powerful appearance.
* **Sorrow as Judgment:** The appearance of `{{H1727}}` in [[Leviticus 26:16]] frames this deep sorrow not as a natural occurrence, but as a specific, divinely ordained consequence of covenant disobedience.
* **Holistic Punishment:** The "sorrow of heart" is intentionally paired with physical diseases like **consumption** `{{H7829}}` and **burning ague** `{{H6920}}`. This demonstrates a biblical understanding where spiritual and emotional anguish is intrinsically linked to physical suffering as part of God's judgment.
* **Internal Despair:** The pining described by `{{H1727}}` affects the **nephesh** `{{H5315}}`, the very soul or life-force. It points to a state of hopelessness and despair that comes from the breaking of one's relationship with God, leading to a life that pines away.
### Summary
In summary, while **dûwb** `{{H1727}}` is one of the rarest words in the Old Testament, its single use offers a powerful theological lesson. It defines a specific kind of sorrow—a deep, consuming pining of the soul that is presented as a direct consequence of turning away from God. Its placement in [[Leviticus 26:16]] serves as a stark reminder that the results of disobedience are not merely external, but can include a profound and debilitating sorrow of heart.
TRV