### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **desheʼ**, represented by `{{H1877}}`, is a term for a new sprout or tender grass. Derived from a root meaning to sprout, it appears **15 times** across **15 unique verses** in the Bible. It generally refers to the first green shoots of vegetation, symbolizing new life, sustenance, and the vibrancy of the natural world.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{H1877}}` is foundational to the creation narrative, where God commands the earth to bring forth **grass** as one of the first forms of plant life [[Genesis 1:11-12]]. This establishes its role as a sign of God's creative power and provision. It is famously used in [[Psalms 23:2]] to describe the "green **pastures**" where the Lord makes his people lie down, creating a powerful image of peace, rest, and divine care. The term also serves as a metaphor for human frailty, as the inhabitants of a kingdom can be compared to the weak and transient "green **herb**" ([[2 Kings 19:26]], [[Isaiah 37:27]]). Its absence signifies drought and judgment [[Jeremiah 14:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and context of **desheʼ**:
* `{{H6212}}` **ʻeseb** (grass, herb): This term is frequently used with `desheʼ` to encompass the full scope of earth's vegetation, from the first sprouts to mature herbs [[Genesis 1:11]]. God’s word is described as falling on both the tender herb (`desheʼ`) and the grass (`ʻeseb`) [[Deuteronomy 32:2]].
* `{{H2233}}` **zeraʻ** (seed): This word is fundamental to the purpose of `desheʼ` as described in creation. The earth was to bring forth grass and herbs yielding `seed`, establishing the principle of life and continuity from the beginning [[Genesis 1:11-12]].
* `{{H2682}}` **châtsîyr** (grass, hay): Often used to depict the fleeting nature of life, `châtsîyr` is paired with `desheʼ` to contrast the temporary state of humanity with the eternal [[Psalms 37:2]]. Its withering signifies desolation [[Isaiah 15:6]].
* `{{H1758}}` **dûwsh** (to trample or thresh): While its primary meaning is to thresh, this root is linked by a scribal error in one verse where it is used by mistake for `desheʼ`. In [[Jeremiah 50:11]], the destroyers of Israel are described as a heifer grown fat "at grass," using `dûwsh` instead of the expected `desheʼ`.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1877}}` is tied to its role in illustrating God's character and relationship with the world.
* **Divine Provision:** Its appearance in the creation account [[Genesis 1:11]] and as food for animals [[Job 6:5]] marks it as a symbol of God's foundational provision for all life.
* **Symbol of Peace and Rest:** The "green pastures" of [[Psalms 23:2]] have become an enduring metaphor for the spiritual peace, security, and sustenance that God provides to His followers.
* **Metaphor for Blessing:** The flourishing of `desheʼ` is connected to divine blessing, such as when a righteous ruler is compared to the tender grass that springs forth after rain [[2 Samuel 23:4]], or when the righteous are promised to "flourish like an herb" [[Isaiah 66:14]].
* **Indicator of Judgment:** The failure or absence of `desheʼ` is a sign of desolation and divine judgment, as seen in times of drought [[Jeremiah 14:5]] or in prophecies of ruin [[Isaiah 15:6]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1877}}` is far more than a simple word for grass. It is a cornerstone of creation imagery, representing God's power to bring forth life from the earth. It functions as a powerful biblical symbol, conveying themes of divine provision, serene rest, the fragility of humanity, and the tangible results of both God's blessing and judgment.
TRV