### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **dâvâh**, represented by `{{H1738}}`, is a primitive root used to mean **to be sick** or to be in a state of **infirmity**. The definition specifically compares this sickness to that of menstruation. As an exceptionally rare term, it appears only **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the Bible, indicating its very precise and narrow application.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical occurrence of `{{H1738}}` is found in the legal instructions given to the children of Israel `{{H3478}}`. In [[Leviticus 12:2]], the law addresses a woman `{{H802}}` who has conceived seed `{{H2232}}` and born `{{H3205}}` a male child `{{H2145}}`. It dictates that she will be unclean `{{H2930}}` for seven `{{H7651}}` days `{{H3117}}`. This period of impurity is directly equated with her physical condition, stating that her time of being unclean corresponds to "the days of the separation `{{H5079}}` for her **infirmity**."
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its immediate context clarify the meaning of `{{H1738}}`:
* `{{H2930}}` **ṭâmêʼ** (to be foul, especially in a ceremial or moral sense (contaminated); ... unclean): This describes the state that results from the **infirmity** of childbirth. The law explicitly states that due to her condition, a woman "shall be **unclean**" [[Leviticus 12:2]].
* `{{H5079}}` **niddâh** (rejection; by implication, impurity, especially personal (menstruation)): This term for **separation** is used in parallel with **infirmity**. The law measures the period of uncleanness by the "days of the **separation** for her infirmity" [[Leviticus 12:2]], linking `dâvâh` directly to a required state of ritual separation.
* `{{H3205}}` **yâlad** (to bear young; ... beget; ... act as midwife): This is the action that brings about the state of **infirmity**. The entire regulation applies to a woman who has **born** a child, making childbirth the direct cause of the condition described by `{{H1738}}` [[Leviticus 12:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1738}}` is tied to the Levitical purity code.
* **Ritual Uncleanness:** The **infirmity** of `dâvâh` leads to a state of ceremonial uncleanness `{{H2930}}`. This was not a moral judgment but a state of being ritually set apart, as mandated by the law given to Israel `{{H3478}}`.
* **The Sanctity of Life Processes:** The law connects the profound act of bringing forth life—having **born** `{{H3205}}` a child—with a temporary state of impurity and **infirmity**. This demonstrates a theological principle where even natural and blessed life events required a period of ritual separation.
* **Divine Instruction:** The ruling concerning `dâvâh` is part of God's spoken `{{H1696}}` word to His people [[Leviticus 12:2]]. It establishes a clear framework for observing purity, showing that God's law provided guidance for all aspects of life, including physical health and recovery.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1738}}` **dâvâh** is a highly specialized term, whose singular use in scripture defines the physical **infirmity** associated with childbirth. It is not a general word for illness but is precisely applied within the Levitical laws of purity. It serves as the reason for a mandated period of ritual uncleanness `{{H2930}}` and separation `{{H5079}}`, illustrating how the Mosaic covenant addressed the physical realities of human life within a sacred structure.
TRV