### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **dak**, represented by `{{H1790}}`, describes a state of being **crushed, injured, afflicted, or oppressed**. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible, primarily in the Psalms. The term conveys a sense of being beaten down, either physically or emotionally, by external forces.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H1790}}` consistently identifies those in a state of vulnerability who are subjects of divine concern. The LORD `{{H3068}}` is presented as a **refuge** `{{H4869}}` for the **oppressed** in times of **trouble** `{{H6869}}`, offering a place of safety [[Psalms 9:9]]. The term is explicitly linked with other vulnerable groups, such as the **fatherless** `{{H3490}}`, for whom God provides judgment and justice against earthly **man** `{{H582}}` who would **oppress** `{{H6206}}` them [[Psalms 10:18]]. The source of this affliction is sometimes tied to human malevolence, as a **lying** `{{H8267}}` **tongue** `{{H3956}}` is said to hate those it has **afflicted** [[Proverbs 26:28]]. Ultimately, the hope is that the **oppressed** will not **return** `{{H7725}}` **ashamed** `{{H3637}}` but will be able to **praise** `{{H1984}}` God's **name** `{{H8034}}` [[Psalms 74:21]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context and consequences surrounding the state of being oppressed:
* `{{H4869}}` **misgâb** (refuge, high fort): This word describes God's provision for the **oppressed** `{{H1790}}`, serving as their defense and high tower [[Psalms 9:9]].
* `{{H8199}}` **shâphaṭ** (to judge, vindicate): This is the action God takes on behalf of the **oppressed** `{{H1790}}`, ensuring that justice is served and their cause is defended [[Psalms 10:18]].
* `{{H3490}}` **yâthôwm** (fatherless, orphan): This term is used in parallel with the **oppressed** `{{H1790}}`, highlighting a class of people who are especially defenseless and in need of divine judgment [[Psalms 10:18]].
* `{{H6206}}` **ʻârats** (to dread, oppress): This is the oppressive action of mortal man that God acts to curtail, providing relief for the **oppressed** `{{H1790}}` [[Psalms 10:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H1790}}` is centered on God's character as a just and compassionate protector.
* **Divine Refuge:** The term establishes that God is a safe haven for those who are crushed and afflicted. He is described as a **refuge** `{{H4869}}` specifically for the **oppressed** [[Psalms 9:9]].
* **Justice for the Vulnerable:** God's righteousness is demonstrated by His intervention on behalf of the **oppressed** `{{H1790}}` and the **fatherless** `{{H3490}}`. He executes judgment to end their affliction [[Psalms 10:18]].
* **The Nature of Sin:** The state of being **afflicted** is connected to human sin, particularly deceitful and hateful speech. A **lying** `{{H8267}}` **tongue** actively works **ruin** `{{H4072}}` and hates those it crushes [[Proverbs 26:28]].
* **Hope in God:** The plea in scripture is that the **oppressed** will not be left in their state of shame, but will be delivered so that they, along with the **poor** `{{H6041}}` and **needy** `{{H34}}`, can ultimately **praise** `{{H1984}}` God's name [[Psalms 74:21]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1790}}` **dak** identifies those who are crushed and oppressed by forces beyond their control. The word is used not merely to describe suffering, but to highlight God's role as the ultimate defender of the vulnerable. It underscores a core biblical theme: that while humanity may cause affliction through oppression and deceit, the LORD `{{H3068}}` is a righteous judge who provides a refuge for the afflicted and ensures that their hope will not result in shame.
TRV