a primitive root; to be extinguished; figuratively, to expire or be dried up; be extinct, consumed, put out, quenched.
Transliteration:dâʻak
Pronunciation:daw-ak'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew verb `{{H1846}}`, *dâʻak*, is a primitive root carrying the fundamental meaning "to be extinguished." Its primary semantic domain relates to the cessation of light or fire, indicating something that is put out, quenched, or dies down. Beyond this literal sense, *dâʻak* extends figuratively to describe the termination or disappearance of various abstract concepts. It can signify "to expire," referring to the cessation of life or hope, or "to be dried up," implying a complete loss of vitality or moisture. The nuances of its usage convey a sense of complete consumption, being put out, or becoming utterly extinct. It emphasizes a process of diminishing until nothing remains, often implying a loss of power, influence, or existence.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The occurrences of `{{H1846}}` in the biblical text consistently reinforce its core meaning of cessation and extinguishment, often with a strong moral or eschatological implication.
In the book of Job, *dâʻak* frequently describes the fate of the wicked. For instance, [[Job 18:5]] proclaims, "Indeed, the light of the wicked is put out, and the flame of his fire does not shine." Here, the "light" and "flame" are metaphors for prosperity, life, and the very existence of the unrighteous, which are destined to be extinguished by divine judgment. Similarly, [[Job 21:17]] asks rhetorically, "How often is the lamp of the wicked put out? Or does their calamity come upon them?" This highlights the temporary nature of the wicked's success, which is ultimately subject to being quenched.
The concept extends to the extinguishing of hope or strength. [[Proverbs 13:9]] states, "The light of the righteous rejoices, but the lamp of the wicked goes out." This verse draws a stark contrast between the enduring prosperity of the just and the inevitable demise of the unjust, whose "lamp" – representing their life, influence, or lineage – is extinguished.
In other contexts, *dâʻak* can refer to the drying up of water or the perishing of vegetation, though these are less common than its application to light or life. The consistent thread is the idea of something vibrant or active coming to a definitive end.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of `{{H1846}}` intersects with several other Hebrew terms that convey notions of destruction, cessation, or decay, yet each possesses its unique emphasis.
A closely related term is `{{H3518}}` *kābâ*, which also means "to be quenched" or "extinguished," often used for fire or anger. While *kābâ* focuses more on the act of quenching, *dâʻak* can emphasize the state of being extinct or the process of fading away.
Other related concepts include:
* `{{H3615}}` *kālâ*: "to complete, finish, consume, perish." This word often describes a more general sense of coming to an end, whether through consumption or completion.
* `{{H7948}}` *shāqam*: "to be desolate, laid waste, ruined." This term points to a state of utter destruction or emptiness, often applied to places or cities.
* `{{H2717}}` *ḥārēb*: "to be dry, desolate, waste." This word resonates with the "dried up" aspect of *dâʻak*, particularly in the context of water sources or land.
In contrast, terms like `{{H2416}}` *ḥay* (life, living) or `{{H216}}` *ʾôr* (light) stand as antonyms, representing vitality, existence, and divine presence, which are never subject to being extinguished.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H1846}}` is profound, primarily serving as a powerful metaphor for divine judgment and the ephemeral nature of all things apart from God. The extinguishing of the lamp or light, particularly of the wicked, symbolizes the termination of their prosperity, influence, and ultimately, their very existence. This is a clear demonstration of God's sovereignty over life and death, blessing and curse.
The transient nature of human life and endeavors, when not anchored in God, is highlighted by *dâʻak*. It underscores the biblical truth that human strength, wisdom, and plans are ultimately fragile and can be "put out" at any moment. This serves as a stark reminder of humanity's dependence on the Creator.
Conversely, the fact that the "light of the righteous" is not extinguished (e.g., [[Proverbs 13:9]]) speaks to the enduring nature of God's covenant with His faithful. While the wicked's lamp is extinguished, the righteous find their light, hope, and life sustained by God Himself, who is the source of all unquenchable light. Thus, *dâʻak* implicitly points to the eternal, unchangeable character of God in contrast to the temporary nature of creation under sin.
### Summary
`{{H1846}}`, *dâʻak*, is a potent Hebrew verb signifying "to be extinguished," whether literally of fire and light, or figuratively of life, hope, and strength. Its semantic range encompasses notions of expiring, drying up, being consumed, or becoming utterly extinct. In biblical contexts, *dâʻak* predominantly describes the inevitable end of the wicked's prosperity and influence, serving as a vivid metaphor for divine judgment. It underscores the transience of all human endeavors and existence apart from God, contrasting sharply with the enduring light and life granted to the righteous. The word thus encapsulates a crucial theological truth: while all created things are subject to being "put out," God alone is the eternal source of unquenchable light and life.
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