### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **hâlîyk**, represented by `{{H1978}}`, means **a walk, i.e. (by implication) a step; step**. It is an exceedingly rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Derived from the word for "a walk," it specifically denotes a single step or the act of taking steps.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H1978}}` is in the book of Job, where Job reflects on his past prosperity. He laments, "When I washed my **steps** with butter, and the rock poured me out rivers of oil" [[Job 29:6]]. In this poetic context, **hâlîyk** is used metaphorically to represent Job's path or course of life. The imagery of his "steps" being washed with butter signifies a life of immense abundance and ease, where every part of his daily walk was characterized by blessing.
### Related Words & Concepts
The powerful imagery in the verse featuring `{{H1978}}` is enhanced by the words used alongside it:
* `{{H7364}}` **râchats** (to lave (the whole or a part of a thing); bathe (self), wash (self)): This is the verb used for "washed" in Job's description of his prosperous path, where his **steps** were washed with butter [[Job 29:6]].
* `{{H6694}}` **tsûwq** (to pour out, i.e. (figuratively) smelt, utter; be molten, pour): This word describes the action of the rock that "poured" out rivers of oil for Job, highlighting the effortless abundance associated with his **steps** [[Job 29:6]].
### Theological Significance
Though used only once, the theological weight of `{{H1978}}` comes from its powerful metaphorical application in Job.
* **A Life's Path:** The word moves beyond a literal footstep to symbolize a person's entire course of life and daily conduct.
* **Evidence of Blessing:** In its sole context, the state of one's "steps" is a direct reflection of divine favor. Job's steps being washed in butter signifies a life saturated with God's material blessings [[Job 29:6]].
* **A Standard of Prosperity:** The term is used by Job to establish the high point of blessing from which he has fallen, creating a stark contrast between a past of divinely-given ease and a present of immense suffering.
### Summary
In summary, **hâlîyk** `{{H1978}}` provides a poignant example of how a rare biblical word can carry significant metaphorical meaning. Its single use in scripture is not for a literal **step**, but to paint a vivid picture of a life path overflowing with prosperity and divine favor. It captures the essence of Job's former blessed state, making his subsequent lament all the more powerful and illustrating how one's walk through life can be a testament to abundance.
TRV