### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **dêaʻ**, represented by `{{H1843}}`, means **knowledge** or **opinion**. It is derived from the verb יָדַע (yâdaʻ), meaning "to know." This specific noun appears only **5 times** in 5 unique verses, with all occurrences found in the Book of Job. It is used to express both human perspective and divine understanding.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H1843}}` is primarily voiced by Elihu. He uses the term when distinguishing his perspective from that of Job's older friends, repeatedly stating his intent to "shew mine **opinion**" ([[Job 32:10]], [[Job 32:17]]). Elihu felt he could not remain silent and was compelled to share his viewpoint [[Job 32:6]]. Later, he uses the same root word to declare, "I will fetch my **knowledge** from afar" [[Job 36:3]] to defend God's righteousness. The word then shifts to describe the divine, questioning if Job can comprehend the "wondrous works of him which is perfect in **knowledge**" [[Job 37:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and context of `{{H1843}}`:
* `{{H3045}}` **yâdaʻ** (to know): This is the primitive root from which `dêaʻ` is formed. It means to know by seeing or observation. The link is direct in the question, "Dost thou **know** the balancings of the clouds," which is immediately followed by a reference to God's perfect "knowledge" [[Job 37:16]].
* `{{H2331}}` **châvâh** (show): This verb, meaning to declare or show, is used three times by Elihu in connection with his "opinion." His statements, "I also will **shew** mine opinion" ([[Job 32:10]], [[Job 32:17]]), link the internal state of knowledge with the act of speaking it forth.
* `{{H8549}}` **tâmîym** (perfect): This adjective describes the nature of God's knowledge as complete, entire, and without blemish. The description of God as "**perfect** in knowledge" [[Job 37:16]] sets His understanding infinitely above human opinion.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H1843}}` is concentrated within its context in Job:
* **Human vs. Divine Knowledge:** The word's usage draws a sharp contrast between the limited "opinion" of man, as expressed by Elihu [[Job 32:6]], and the flawless, "perfect" knowledge possessed by God [[Job 37:16]]. It underscores a central theme in Job about the limits of human understanding in the face of divine wisdom.
* **Knowledge and Declaration:** `dêaʻ` is consistently paired with the verb "to shew" (`{{H2331}}`), emphasizing that knowledge is not merely held but is meant to be declared. Elihu presents his opinion as something that must be brought into the open [[Job 32:10]].
* **Knowledge as the Basis for God's Works:** The term is explicitly connected to God's power over creation. God's "perfect in knowledge" status is presented as the foundation for His "wondrous works" (`{{H4652}}`), such as the balancing of the clouds [[Job 37:16]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1843}}` is a focused term used exclusively in the Book of Job to explore the different strata of understanding. While it can refer to a person's "opinion," its ultimate purpose within the text is to elevate the concept of knowledge to the divine level. It contrasts the fallible, declared perspectives of humans with the perfect, complete, and creative knowledge that belongs to God alone.
TRV