### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **dâchaq**, represented by `{{H1766}}`, is a primitive root meaning to **press**, **oppress**, **thrust**, or **vex**. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, used to describe both the affliction caused by enemies and the orderly movement of a formidable force.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two uses of `{{H1766}}` illustrate its distinct applications. In Judges, the term describes the suffering of the Israelites, noting that the LORD delivered them from their enemies due to their groaning from those who oppressed them and **vexed** them [[Judges 2:18]]. Here, it signifies a hostile and distressing pressure. In contrast, Joel uses the word to describe an unstoppable army where soldiers do not **thrust** one another, but instead maintain perfect formation as they **walk** every one in his path [[Joel 2:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which `{{H1766}}` appears:
* `{{H3905}}` **lâchats** (oppress): Used in parallel with **dâchaq** in [[Judges 2:18]], this word also means to press or distress. It underscores the severity of the affliction placed upon Israel by its enemies.
* `{{H3212}}` **yâlak** (walk): In [[Joel 2:8]], the army's members **walk** in their path instead of thrusting one another. This word provides a direct contrast to the chaotic action of `{{H1766}}`, highlighting the force's discipline.
* `{{H341}}` **ʼôyêb** (enemy): This identifies the agent of the vexing action in [[Judges 2:18]]. The **enemies** of Israel were the ones who vexed and oppressed the people, prompting God's intervention.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1766}}` is seen in its two contrasting applications.
* **Catalyst for Divine Intervention:** The act of being "vexed" `{{H1766}}` is presented as a direct cause of Israel's groaning, which in turn leads the LORD to deliver `{{H3467}}` His people from the hand `{{H3027}}` of their enemies [[Judges 2:18]]. This shows that this type of oppressive pressure is a condition God actively moves to resolve.
* **Mark of Orderly Power:** The absence of "thrusting" `{{H1766}}` within the army described in Joel is a sign of its supernatural discipline. This orderly progression, where each element proceeds without interfering with another, depicts a formidable power that cannot be broken, even when they fall `{{H5307}}` upon the sword `{{H7973}}` [[Joel 2:8]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1766}}` is a specific term for pressure and force. While it appears infrequently, it powerfully conveys two different ideas: the distressing affliction caused by enemies that God sees and responds to, and the internal chaos that is notably absent from a divinely organized and disciplined power.
TRV