The Hebrew word dâlach, represented by H1804, is a primitive root meaning to roil water; trouble. It appears 3 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. This term is used to describe the physical act of disturbing or agitating water, creating turmoil.
The word is found exclusively in the book of Ezekiel in a prophecy against Pharaoh. In a lamentation, Pharaoh is described as a great creature in the seas who "came forth with thy rivers, and troubledst H1804 the waters with thy feet" Ezekiel 32:2. This usage paints a picture of a powerful and disruptive force. The word appears again when God declares His judgment, promising to destroy the beasts and bring peace to the waters, stating that "neither shall the foot of man trouble H1804 them any more, nor the hoofs of beasts trouble H1804 them" Ezekiel 32:13.
Several related words clarify the context of H1804:
- H7515 râphas (to trample, i.e. roil water; foul, trouble): This word is used in direct parallel with H1804 to describe the result of troubling the water, as Pharaoh not only troubled the waters but also "fouledst their rivers" Ezekiel 32:2.
- H7272 regel (a foot): This is the instrument used to perform the action of troubling. The text specifies that Pharaoh troubled the waters "with thy feet" Ezekiel 32:2, and God promises that the "foot of man" will no longer do so Ezekiel 32:13.
- H6541 parçâh (a claw or split hoof): This term is used to describe the instrument of the beasts that also disturb the waters, with God vowing that "the hoofs of beasts" will no longer trouble them Ezekiel 32:13.
The conceptual weight of H1804 is centered on the themes of disruption and restoration.
- Symbol of Destructive Power: The act of "troubling" the waters is used to characterize the arrogant and disruptive influence of Pharaoh, portrayed as a great beast fouling his own domain Ezekiel 32:2.
- Chaos and Pollution: To "trouble" or roil the water is to create chaos and impurity. The action is not neutral; it is directly associated with fouling the rivers and is performed by disruptive forces like a beast or man.
- Divine Restoration: The cessation of this "troubling" is an act of God. His judgment brings an end to the turmoil, signifying a return to a state of peace and purity for the waters Ezekiel 32:13.
In summary, H1804 is a vivid and specific verb that means more than just stirring water. In its biblical context within Ezekiel, it serves as a powerful metaphor for the disruptive and polluting chaos caused by an arrogant power. The word's significance is highlighted by God's promise to end the "troubling," thereby restoring order and peace.
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