### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **hemyâh**, represented by `{{H1998}}`, serves as a term for **sound** or **noise**. It appears only **1 times** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible, indicating a highly specific and focused meaning tied directly to its context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{H1998}}` appears in a prophecy of judgment. In [[Isaiah 14:11]], the word describes the clamor of a king's celebration being silenced by death. The verse states that his pomp and the **noise** of his viols are brought down to the grave. Here, the "noise" symbolizes the earthly, prideful festivities that are ultimately rendered meaningless and silent by divine judgment.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its biblical context provide deeper understanding:
* `{{H1347}}` **gâʼôwn** (arrogancy or majesty; by implication, (concretely) ornament): Translated as "pomp" in [[Isaiah 14:11]], this word appears directly alongside `{{H1998}}`. It establishes that the "noise" is an expression of human arrogance and pride, which is destined for destruction [[Proverbs 16:18]].
* `{{H5035}}` **nebel** (a skin-bag for liquids (from collapsing when empty); hence, a vase (as similar in shape when full); also a lyre (as having a body of like form)): This word, translated as "viols," identifies the source of the **noise**. While often associated with worship and joyful praise ([[Psalms 33:2]], [[1 Chronicles 15:16]]), here its sound is linked to condemned earthly celebration.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H1998}}` is derived entirely from its singular, powerful context.
* **Judgment on Pride:** The "noise" represents the audible evidence of human arrogance and self-glorification. Its silencing is a direct consequence of judgment against a prideful ruler, demonstrating that earthly power is temporary [[Isaiah 14:11]].
* **The Futility of Worldly Celebration:** By linking the **noise** to musical instruments often used in celebration, the passage highlights the ultimate futility of worldly pleasures when they are not centered on God. The joyous sounds of the court are brought to nothing in the grave.
* **Silence as a Divine Act:** The cessation of this **noise** is not a random occurrence but an act of God. It contrasts the loud, boastful sounds of humanity with the decisive and final silence that comes with divine judgment.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1998}}` is a uniquely focused term for **noise**. Its sole appearance in scripture defines it not as a neutral sound, but as the clamor of human pride and worldly festivity. Paired with words for "pomp" and musical instruments, its context in [[Isaiah 14:11]] powerfully illustrates the biblical theme that God will ultimately silence the arrogance of man and bring all earthly grandeur down to the grave.
TRV