### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **hâgûwth**, represented by `{{H1900}}`, is defined as **musing** or **meditation**. It appears only **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the Bible, but this single instance provides a clear picture of its meaning, linking inner thought to the pursuit of divine insight.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H1900}}` is in [[Psalms 49:3]], which states, "My mouth shall speak of wisdom; and the **meditation** of my heart shall be of understanding." In this verse, **hâgûwth** describes a profound internal process. It is an activity of the heart `{{H3820}}` that parallels the mouth's `{{H6310}}` act of speaking `{{H1696}}` wisdom `{{H2454}}`. The text establishes **meditation** as the source from which true understanding `{{H8394}}` originates and is then expressed.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context expand on the concept of meditation and its outcomes:
* `{{H3820}}` **lêb** (the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect): This is the location of the **meditation**. Scripture identifies the **heart** as the center of a person's being, which must be kept with all diligence because out of it are the issues of life [[Proverbs 4:23]].
* `{{H1696}}` **dâbar** (to speak): This word represents the outward expression that follows from the inner **meditation**. What is contemplated in the heart is then spoken by the mouth. The certainty of what God has **spoken** is a recurring theme, as he will not leave his promises unfulfilled [[Genesis 28:15]].
* `{{H8394}}` **tâbûwn** (intelligence; by implication, an argument; by extension, caprice): This is the goal of the **meditation**. The purpose of **hâgûwth** is to arrive at **understanding**. This **understanding** is a gift from the LORD [[Proverbs 2:6]], and there is no searching of his **understanding** [[Isaiah 40:28]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1900}}` is tied directly to its single, powerful use.
* **The Source of Wise Speech:** The link between the **meditation** `{{H1900}}` of the heart `{{H3820}}` and the speaking `{{H1696}}` of the mouth `{{H6310}}` establishes a foundational principle: righteous speech originates from thoughtful, internal contemplation [[Psalms 49:3]].
* **Purposeful Contemplation:** Biblical **meditation** is not depicted as an aimless practice. It is specifically directed toward gaining **understanding** `{{H8394}}`, highlighting a focused pursuit of divine truth [[Psalms 49:3]].
* **The Inner and Outer Life:** The word connects the inner life of the heart with its outward expression. Just as God puts his law in the inward parts and writes it on the heart [[Jeremiah 31:33]], the believer's meditation is an internal process that should result in external wisdom.
### Summary
In summary, while **hâgûwth** `{{H1900}}` is used only once, its context in [[Psalms 49:3]] is deeply instructive. It defines **meditation** as a function of the heart (`lêb`) that serves as the foundation for spoken wisdom. This word demonstrates that true understanding (`tâbûwn`) is the fruit of deliberate internal musing, beautifully illustrating the biblical connection between a pure inner life and a righteous outward expression.
TRV