### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **dâʻak**, represented by `{{H1846}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to be extinguished**. Appearing **9 times** in **9 unique verses**, its definition also includes the figurative concepts of expiring, being dried up, consumed, or quenched. It is most frequently used to describe the fate of the wicked, whose light or life is brought to an end.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{H1846}}` consistently carries a sense of finality and judgment. A dominant theme is the extinguishment of the "light" or "lamp" of the wicked, symbolizing the end of their prosperity, influence, or life itself. This is seen in Job, where the light of the wicked is put out [[Job 18:5]] and his candle is put out with him [[Job 18:6]]. The book of Proverbs reinforces this, stating that the lamp of the wicked will be put out ([[Proverbs 13:9]], [[Proverbs 24:20]]). The term also describes the decisive defeat of hostile forces. In Isaiah, an entire army is rendered extinct and quenched like tow [[Isaiah 43:17]]. Similarly, the psalmist declares that his enemies are quenched like a fire of thorns [[Psalms 118:12]]. In a more literal sense, it depicts the natural process of streams being consumed or dried up by heat [[Job 6:17]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of extinguishment and darkness:
* `{{H216}}` **ʼôwr** (light): This word for **illumination or...light** is often the object that is extinguished by `{{H1846}}`. While the light of the righteous rejoices, the lamp of the wicked is put out [[Proverbs 13:9]].
* `{{H3518}}` **kâbâh** (to expire or extinguish): This root, meaning **to expire or (causatively) to extinguish (fire, light, anger)**, is used synonymously with `{{H1846}}`. In [[Isaiah 43:17]], a defeated army is described as both extinct `{{H1846}}` and quenched `{{H3518}}`, emphasizing the totality of their destruction.
* `{{H2821}}` **châshak** (to be dark): Meaning **to be dark...or to darken**, this verb describes the state that results from light being put out. The connection is explicit in [[Job 18:6]], where "The light shall be **dark** `{{H2821}}` in his tabernacle, and his candle shall be **put out** `{{H1846}}` with him."
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1846}}` is significant and focused on the consequences of evil.
* **Symbol of Judgment:** The quenching of a lamp or light serves as a potent biblical metaphor for divine judgment. The fate of the wicked is repeatedly described as their light being put out, signifying the termination of their existence or prosperity ([[Job 18:5]], [[Proverbs 13:9]]).
* **Consequence of Wickedness:** The act of being "put out" is a direct consequence of specific sins. Cursing one's parents results in one's lamp being put out in darkness [[Proverbs 20:20]], and the candle of the evil man meets the same fate, showing a clear moral calculus [[Proverbs 24:20]].
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The word highlights God's absolute power to end what seems powerful. God's ability to quench enemy armies [[Isaiah 43:17]] or hostile forces that swarm like bees [[Psalms 118:12]] demonstrates that no power can stand against His will.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1846}}` **dâʻak** is more than a simple verb for being extinguished. It functions primarily as a powerful theological term illustrating the finality of divine judgment against wickedness. Through the recurring imagery of a lamp being put out, scripture uses this word to convey the transient and futile nature of a life lived in opposition to God. Whether describing a defeated army, a dried-up stream, or the fate of the evil man, **dâʻak** points to an inevitable and absolute end.
TRV