### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]]).
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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