The Hebrew word davvây, represented by H1742, describes a state of being sick, figuratively troubled, or faint. Derived from דָּוֶה, this specific term is rare, appearing only 3 times across 3 unique verses in scripture, yet it powerfully conveys a condition of deep distress and weakness.
In its biblical usage, H1742 consistently describes the condition of the heart under immense strain. In Isaiah, it portrays the spiritual exhaustion of a rebellious people, where the "whole heart" is faint as a result of being "stricken" for sin Isaiah 1:5. The prophet Jeremiah uses the term to express his own inconsolable grief, stating "my heart is faint in me" when he attempts to find comfort from sorrow Jeremiah 8:18. Similarly, in Lamentations, the word captures the despair over judgment and transgression, crying out, "my heart is faint" Lamentations 1:22.
Several related words help clarify the context of being faint or troubled:
- H2483 chŏlîy (disease, grief, sickness): This term often appears in parallel with H1742, linking faintness to a state of sickness. In Isaiah's diagnosis of Israel, the head is described as sick while the heart is faint Isaiah 1:5.
- H3015 yâgôwn (affliction; grief, sorrow): This word points to the emotional cause of the faintness. Jeremiah's heart is faint specifically in the face of sorrow that cannot be comforted Jeremiah 8:18.
- H3820 lêb and H3824 lêbâb (the heart): This is the part of a person that is described as being faint. In all three occurrences, H1742 modifies the heart, indicating that this faintness is an internal condition affecting the will, feelings, and intellect (Isaiah 1:5, Lamentations 1:22, Jeremiah 8:18).
The theological weight of H1742 lies in its raw depiction of human frailty in the face of sin and sorrow.
- Symptom of Spiritual Rebellion: The faint heart is presented not as a random ailment but as a direct consequence of turning away from God. It is a sign of a nation spiritually unwell and exhausted by its own revolt Isaiah 1:5.
- Expression of Profound Grief: The word is used by the prophets to articulate a depth of sorrow that is physically and emotionally debilitating. It captures the pain of witnessing and experiencing the consequences of sin (Jeremiah 8:18, Lamentations 1:22).
- The Limit of Self-Comfort: In Jeremiah's experience, the faintness of heart persists even when he seeks comfort, suggesting a state of despair that human effort alone cannot remedy Jeremiah 8:18.
In summary, H1742 is a specific and impactful word that describes a heart grown faint from sickness, sorrow, and spiritual distress. Though used infrequently, it provides a vivid picture of the internal consequences of sin and grief. It illustrates a condition of profound weakness, pointing to the utter exhaustion of the human spirit when separated from its source of strength and comfort.
TRV