### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **hâgâh**, represented by `{{H1898}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to remove** or **to stay away**. It appears only 3 times in 3 unique verses, indicating a specific and focused application. The term carries a dual sense of action, such as taking something away, and inaction, meaning to hold something back or restrain it.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H1898}}` consistently describes a process of purification or the tempering of judgment. In Proverbs, it is used twice to illustrate the principle of refinement. First, it commands to **take away** the dross from silver, which results in a vessel for the finer [[Proverbs 25:4]]. This physical metaphor is immediately applied to governance, where one must **take away** the wicked from the king's presence so his throne can be established in righteousness [[Proverbs 25:5]]. In Isaiah, the word shifts to the concept of restraint, where God **stayeth** His rough wind during a time of divine judgment [[Isaiah 27:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in its immediate context help clarify the results of this "taking away" or "staying":
* `{{H3318}}` **yâtsâʼ** (to go... bring forth): The removal of dross by `{{H1898}}` directly allows for a refined vessel to **come forth** [[Proverbs 25:4]].
* `{{H3559}}` **kûwn** (to... establish, fix, prepare): Similarly, taking away the wicked is the prerequisite for a king's throne to be **established** in righteousness [[Proverbs 25:5]].
* `{{H7378}}` **rîyb** (to... wrangle... contend, debate): God's action to **stay** His wind `{{H1898}}` occurs while He is in a **debate** with His people, showing restraint during a period of controversy [[Isaiah 27:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H1898}}` lies in its portrayal of God's refining and judicious character.
* **Principle of Purification:** The word establishes a clear spiritual principle. Just as dross must be **taken away** to produce a pure vessel, wickedness must be removed for righteousness to be established [[Proverbs 25:4-5]].
* **Divine Restraint in Judgment:** The term demonstrates that God's power is shown not only in action but also in what He holds back. He **stayeth** his rough wind, indicating that His judgment is measured and not unleashed in its full force [[Isaiah 27:8]].
* **Removal as a Prerequisite:** The use of `{{H1898}}` in Proverbs highlights that stability and righteousness are the direct result of first removing corrupting influences. A throne is only **established** after the wicked are **taken away** [[Proverbs 25:5]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1898}}` is a potent word that, despite its infrequent use, conveys a critical theological concept: that purification and stability are achieved through the intentional removal of the impure and the restraint of overwhelming force. Whether it is actively taking away dross and wickedness or passively staying a harsh wind, **hâgâh** points to a necessary action that precedes a positive and righteous outcome, illustrating how God works to refine and establish with purpose.
TRV