### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **zeh**, represented by `{{H2089}}`, is defined as **a sheep; lamb**. It is noted as being a permutation for `{{H7716}}`. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire biblical text.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{H2089}}` occurs in David's account to Saul before his battle with Goliath. David explains that while he was tending his father's flock, a lion and a bear came and seized a **lamb** [[1 Samuel 17:34]]. In this context, the word signifies a vulnerable member of the flock, emphasizing the danger David faced and his courage as a shepherd in protecting his charge from powerful predators.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{H2089}}` is enriched by its relationship to other Hebrew words, particularly those present in the same narrative:
* `{{H7716}}` **seh**: The more common term for **a member of a flock, i.e. a sheep or goat; (lesser, small) cattle, ewe, goat, lamb, sheep**. It is used for the Passover **lamb** [[Exodus 12:5]] and symbolically for Israel as a scattered **sheep** [[Jeremiah 50:17]].
* `{{H738}}` **ʼărîy**: This word for **a lion** appears alongside `{{H2089}}` as one of the predators David fought [[1 Samuel 17:34]]. It is often used to symbolize a powerful and destructive force [[Jeremiah 4:7]].
* `{{H1677}}` **dôb**: Meaning **the bear**, this word also appears as a predator in David's account [[1 Samuel 17:34]]. It is used elsewhere to describe fierceness, as with a **bear** robbed of her whelps [[2 Samuel 17:8]].
### Theological Significance
Despite its single appearance, `{{H2089}}` carries theological weight within its narrative context.
* **Vulnerability and Deliverance:** The **lamb** represents a helpless creature rescued from predators. This event becomes David's testimony, as he declares that the same LORD who delivered him from the lion and the bear would also deliver him from the Philistine [[1 Samuel 17:37]].
* **Faithfulness of the Shepherd:** The story involving the **lamb** establishes David's credentials not just as a brave warrior, but as a faithful shepherd willing to risk his life for one of his flock.
* **A Basis for Faith:** The rescue of the `{{H2089}}` **lamb** serves as the tangible proof upon which David bases his faith to face a much greater enemy. It is a concrete example of God's past deliverance informing future trust.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2089}}` **zeh** is a highly specific term for a **lamb** whose sole appearance is pivotal. It functions within the narrative of 1 Samuel to illustrate the dangers of a shepherd's life, establish the basis for David's profound faith in God's power to save, and provide a direct parallel for the greater deliverance he was about to experience. Its meaning is amplified by the associated terms for predators and flock animals that surround it.
TRV