### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **hayâh**, represented by `{{H1962}}`, is a specific term for **ruin** or **calamity**. As another form for הֹוָה, it appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses**, exclusively within the book of Job. It is used to describe a state of overwhelming disaster and personal affliction.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H1962}}` is used by Job to articulate the depth of his suffering. He expresses a desire for his **calamity** to be weighed alongside his grief, emphasizing its tangible and immense burden [[Job 6:2]]. Later, Job uses the term to accuse his detractors, stating that they actively "set forward" his **calamity**, contributing to his ruin where there is no one to help [[Job 30:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a broader context for the concept of calamity and suffering:
* `{{H1942}}` **havvâh** (calamity, iniquity, mischief, very wickedness): This word is the root form and appears alongside `{{H1962}}` in both its occurrences. It is also used to describe "noisome" pestilence [[Psalms 91:3]] and the "wickedness" of those who trust in riches [[Psalms 52:7]].
* `{{H3708}}` **kaʻaç** (vexation; anger, angry, grief): This word is directly paired with calamity in Job's lament, as he wishes his **grief** and calamity were weighed together [[Job 6:2]]. It connects the external state of ruin with internal sorrow and vexation.
* `{{H5420}}` **nâthâç** (to tear up; mar): This verb describes the action taken against Job that worsens his state. His accusers **mar** his path, actively advancing his calamity [[Job 30:13]].
* `{{H5375}}` **nâsâʼ** (to lift, bear, carry away): This word is used in Job's plea for his calamity to be "laid" or **lifted** into the balances for weighing [[Job 6:2]]. It is also used in the context of God who is "lofty" [[Isaiah 57:15]] and pardons iniquity [[Micah 7:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1962}}` is concentrated on the nature of profound personal suffering.
* **The Experience of Ruin:** The term gives voice to the experience of a righteous person undergoing a complete disaster. Job's use of **calamity** shows it as a measurable weight he is forced to endure [[Job 6:2]].
* **Human Culpability in Suffering:** It highlights that calamity is not always a random or divine event, but can be actively advanced by the actions of others who "mar" a person's path [[Job 30:13]].
* **Grief and Calamity:** The word's direct association with grief underscores the deep emotional and psychological sorrow that accompanies ruinous circumstances [[Job 6:2]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1962}}` is a rare but potent term for **calamity** and **ruin**. Its exclusive use in the book of Job anchors it to the theme of personal suffering. It powerfully conveys a state of being overwhelmed by disaster, a condition that is both a heavy internal burden of grief and an external reality that can be worsened by the actions of others.
TRV