### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼavvâh**, represented by `{{H185}}`, conveys a strong sense of **longing** or **desire**. Derived from the root `{{H183}}`, which means to wish for or covet, it appears **7 times** in **7 unique verses** in Scripture. This word captures a range of powerful longings, from a permissible appetite for pleasure to an intense, driving lust.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In Scripture, `{{H185}}` is used to express various forms of strong desire. It often describes a person's appetite or craving, such as the longing to eat meat `{{H1320}}`, which is permitted by God `{{H430}}` within certain guidelines [[Deuteronomy 12:20]]. The word also portrays a fervent, positive longing, as when a Levite `{{H3881}}` comes with all the **desire** of his mind `{{H5315}}` to serve the LORD `{{H3068}}` in the chosen `{{H977}}` place [[Deuteronomy 18:6]]. In a different context, it can signify a king's `{{H4428}}` resolute will to act [[1 Samuel 23:20]]. The term is even used for God's own intent, expressing His **desire** to chastise `{{H3256}}` His people `{{H5971}}` [[Hosea 10:10]]. Finally, it can illustrate an untamed, instinctual drive, like that of a wild ass `{{H6501}}` acting on its own **pleasure** [[Jeremiah 2:24]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and application of **ʼavvâh**:
* `{{H183}}` **ʼâvâh** (to wish for): As the root verb, it establishes the fundamental concept of longing or coveting that `{{H185}}` encapsulates as a noun. It appears in contexts of desiring evil [[Proverbs 21:10]] or desiring God's presence [[Isaiah 26:9]].
* `{{H5315}}` **nephesh** (soul, mind, appetite): This word is frequently paired with `{{H185}}` to form the phrase "desire of the soul," indicating that the longing originates from the very core of a being's life and appetite ([[Deuteronomy 12:20]], [[1 Samuel 23:20]]).
* `{{H398}}` **ʼâkal** (to eat): This verb is central to the most common application of `{{H185}}`, where the desire is specifically for eating flesh `{{H1320}}`, a tangible and permissible longing under God's law [[Deuteronomy 12:15]].
* `{{H1245}}` **bâqash** (to seek): This term describes the action that can follow a desire. In the illustration of the wild ass, those who **seek** her do not need to weary themselves, because her own powerful desire will eventually make her findable [[Jeremiah 2:24]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H185}}` is demonstrated in its varied applications:
* **Legitimate Desire within Boundaries:** The repeated use in Deuteronomy shows that God acknowledges natural human desires, such as the appetite for meat `{{H1320}}`, and makes provision for them. This **desire** is sanctioned as long as it is exercised according to His commands `{{H6680}}` and within the blessing `{{H1293}}` He provides ([[Deuteronomy 12:15]], [[Deuteronomy 12:21]]).
* **Righteous Zeal:** The word is not inherently negative. A Levite's **desire** to come and minister before the LORD `{{H3068}}` is presented as a wholly positive and commendable impulse, demonstrating a soul `{{H5315}}` longing for God's service [[Deuteronomy 18:6]].
* **Unbridled Lust:** In contrast, `{{H185}}` can depict a negative, uncontrolled craving. Jeremiah uses the image of a wild ass `{{H6501}}` driven by her own **pleasure** to illustrate Israel's willful spiritual waywardness and refusal to be turned `{{H7725}}` from her path [[Jeremiah 2:24]].
* **Divine Purpose:** Significantly, `{{H185}}` is used to describe God's own sovereign will. In Hosea, God's **desire** is to chastise `{{H3256}}` Israel, showing that the term can refer to a settled, deliberate intention rather than a mere emotional whim [[Hosea 10:10]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H185}}` **ʼavvâh** is a potent term for **desire** that derives its specific meaning from its context. It can describe everything from the sanctioned satisfaction of physical appetites [[Deuteronomy 12:20]] to the pure zeal for serving God [[Deuteronomy 18:6]]. Whether expressing the determined will of a king [[1 Samuel 23:20]], the sovereign purpose of God [[Hosea 10:10]], or the untamed lust of a rebellious heart [[Jeremiah 2:24]], **ʼavvâh** consistently points to a powerful longing originating from the soul `{{H5315}}`. It illustrates that desire itself is a neutral force, defined as either righteous or sinful by the object it seeks and the boundaries it respects.
TRV