from דָּחָה; a push, i.e. (by implication) a fall; falling.
Transliteration:dᵉchîy
Pronunciation:deh-khee'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word dᵉchîy (`{{H1762}}`) is a noun derived from the verb dāḥâ (`{{H1760}}`), which means "to push," "to thrust," "to cast out," or "to overthrow." Consequently, dᵉchîy carries the primary sense of "a push" or "a thrust." By implication, this external force leads to a state of instability or collapse, giving rise to its extended meaning of "a fall" or "falling." It describes the precarious state of being pushed off balance or the imminent act of falling as a result of such a push, rather than a self-initiated descent. The word emphasizes the external impetus behind the potential downfall.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word dᵉchîy (`{{H1762}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in [[Psalm 118:13]].
In [[Psalm 118:13]], the psalmist declares: "You pushed me violently, so that I was falling, but the LORD helped me."
Here, dᵉchîy is rendered "falling" (לִנְפֹּל דְּחִיתַנִי, *linpol dᵉchîtani*). The verb "pushed" (דְּחִיתַנִי) is a form of the root dāḥâ (`{{H1760}}`), directly linking the action of pushing to the resulting state of dᵉchîy. The context describes a dire situation where the psalmist is under severe attack or pressure from adversaries ("You pushed me violently"). This is not a moral or spiritual fall, but rather a physical or existential one, indicating a profound state of vulnerability and near-collapse. The psalmist is on the brink of being overwhelmed or defeated. The phrase powerfully conveys the intensity of the assault and the immediate danger of complete downfall. Crucially, this verse immediately pivots to a declaration of divine intervention: "but the LORD helped me," highlighting God's role as the rescuer and sustainer in moments of extreme peril.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **dāḥâ (`{{H1760}}`):** The root verb from which dᵉchîy is derived, meaning "to push," "to thrust," or "to drive away." This connection underscores the active, external force causing the "push" or "fall" described by dᵉchîy.
* **nāphal (`{{H5307}}`):** Meaning "to fall," "to lie down," or "to fail." In [[Psalm 118:13]], dᵉchîy is used in conjunction with a form of nāphal (*linpol*), emphasizing a specific kind of falling—one resulting from being pushed.
* **mā'ad (`{{H4571}}`):** Meaning "to slip," "to totter," or "to stumble." This word describes an unsteady state or near-fall, often implying a loss of balance. While dᵉchîy focuses on the external cause, mā'ad describes the resulting instability.
* **Divine Upholding:** The concept of God preventing His people from falling or stumbling is a pervasive theme in the Psalms (e.g., [[Psalm 37:24]], [[Psalm 62:2]], [[Psalm 62:6]], [[Psalm 121:3]]). dᵉchîy contributes to this theological tapestry by articulating the moment of extreme vulnerability before divine aid intervenes.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of dᵉchîy (`{{H1762}}`) in [[Psalm 118:13]] carries significant theological weight. It portrays the psalmist, and by extension, the believer, in a state of profound distress and imminent collapse, pushed to the very edge by hostile forces. This "falling" is not a consequence of personal sin or weakness, but an external assault that threatens to overwhelm.
The theological profundity of dᵉchîy lies in its stark contrast with God's immediate and effective intervention. The declaration "but the LORD helped me" transforms a moment of human fragility and near-defeat into a powerful testimony of divine faithfulness and sustaining power. It underscores that even when pushed to the brink of utter downfall, God's people are not abandoned. The experience of dᵉchîy serves to magnify God's role as the ultimate deliverer and upholder. It reminds believers that their security does not rest on their own strength or ability to resist external pressures, but entirely on the steadfast love and active help of the Lord. Thus, dᵉchîy is a word that encapsulates human vulnerability in the face of adversity, yet ultimately points to the unwavering might and compassion of God.
### Summary
The Hebrew word dᵉchîy (`{{H1762}}`), derived from dāḥâ (`{{H1760}}`), fundamentally means "a push" and, by implication, "a fall" or "falling." Its sole biblical occurrence in [[Psalm 118:13]] vividly describes a state of extreme peril where the psalmist is violently pushed to the brink of collapse by adversaries. This "falling" is an existential threat, not a moral failing. The theological significance of dᵉchîy is profound, serving as a crucial backdrop for the subsequent declaration of divine intervention. It highlights the absolute dependence of humanity on God's sustaining power, demonstrating that even when faced with overwhelming external forces that threaten complete downfall, the Lord is faithful to provide help and prevent ultimate collapse. The word thus encapsulates human vulnerability and God's unwavering faithfulness.
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