### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **dᵉvay**, represented by `{{H1741}}`, describes a state of **sickness**, figurative **loathing**, or being **sorrowful**. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. The term encompasses both the physical experience of **languishing** from illness and the deep emotional response of sorrow that can feel like a sickness of the soul.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two uses of `{{H1741}}` in scripture illustrate its dual meaning. In [[Psalms 41:3]], it describes a physical condition, "the bed of **languishing**," where the sufferer is promised strength from the LORD `{{H3068}}`. This context points to a severe, bed-ridden state of sickness. In contrast, [[Job 6:7]] uses the term figuratively to express deep emotional distress. Job declares that the things his soul `{{H5315}}` refuses to touch have become like his "**sorrowful** meat `{{H3899}}`," portraying an affliction so profound that it turns sustenance into a source of loathing.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context surrounding `{{H1741}}`:
* `{{H2483}}` **chŏlîy** (malady, anxiety, calamity): This word for sickness or grief appears in the same verse as `{{H1741}}`, where the Lord promises to attend to the sick person in their **sickness** [[Psalms 41:3]]. It is also used to describe the suffering of the man of sorrows [[Isaiah 53:3]].
* `{{H5315}}` **nephesh** (soul): In [[Job 6:7]], it is the **soul** that experiences the revulsion associated with `{{H1741}}`. This connects the idea of sorrowful loathing directly to the core of a person's being, their desires, and their very life.
* `{{H2015}}` **hâphak** (to turn about or over): This word is used in [[Psalms 41:3]] to describe God's restorative action. He will "**make**" or "turn" the sick person's bed, suggesting a complete transformation or overturning of the state of languishing `{{H1741}}`.
* `{{H5582}}` **çâʻad** (to suport, comfort, establish, strengthen): This is the direct divine response to the person on the bed of languishing `{{H1741}}`. The LORD `{{H3068}}` promises to **strengthen** the afflicted, providing support in their sickness [[Psalms 41:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H1741}}` is concentrated in its portrayal of suffering and divine response.
* **Sickness as a State of Confinement:** The phrase "bed of **languishing**" [[Psalms 41:3]] presents sickness not just as a feeling, but as a defining state that confines a person. It is a condition that requires external intervention.
* **Divine Intervention in Suffering:** The context of [[Psalms 41:3]] explicitly frames the experience of languishing `{{H1741}}` with the promise of God's direct action. The LORD `{{H3068}}` will strengthen `{{H5582}}` and transform `{{H2015}}` the situation, showing that suffering is an arena for God's support.
* **The Soul's Loathing:** Job's use of the term reveals the profound internal dimension of affliction. The suffering is so great that it corrupts a basic life necessity, turning food `{{H3899}}` into something **sorrowful** `{{H1741}}` that the soul `{{H5315}}` refuses to touch.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1741}}` **dᵉvay** is a potent and specific term for suffering. Though used only twice, it effectively captures both the physical reality of **languishing** from sickness and the figurative, soul-deep **loathing** that can accompany profound distress. It shows a state of affliction that is met with God's promise of strength and transformation, highlighting both the depth of human suffering and the hope of divine support.
TRV