### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **zâham**, represented by `{{H2092}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to be rancid, i.e. (transitively) to loathe; abhor**. This specific and intense term is exceedingly rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, marking its usage as highly significant within its sole context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical appearance of `{{H2092}}` is in the book of Job, where it describes a state of profound suffering. In [[Job 33:20]], the verse states, "So that his life abhorreth bread, and his soul dainty meat." Here, **zâham** captures a physical revulsion so complete that the sufferer's very life `{{H2416}}` and soul `{{H5315}}` reject basic sustenance like bread `{{H3899}}` and even desirable food `{{H3978}}`. The word powerfully illustrates the physical manifestation of deep anguish.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{H2092}}` is enriched by the words surrounding it in [[Job 33:20]]:
* `{{H2416}}` **chay** (life): This word refers to life or a living thing, whether literally or figuratively. It is central to concepts of vitality and existence, as seen in the command to guard one's soul diligently all the days of one's **life** [[Deuteronomy 4:9]].
* `{{H3899}}` **lechem** (bread): A term for food, especially **bread**. It often symbolizes basic provision and God's blessing, as when God promises to bless the people's **bread** and water [[Exodus 23:25]].
* `{{H5315}}` **nephesh** (soul): Representing a breathing creature or vitality, this word is widely used for the inner person, mind, or life. It is the seat of emotion and will, as in the command to love God with all one's **soul** [[Deuteronomy 6:5]].
* `{{H3978}}` **maʼăkâl** (meat): This word denotes something eatable, including fruit or flesh. It is often used to describe sustenance provided by God, such as the trees in the garden that were good for **food** [[Genesis 2:9]].
* `{{H8378}}` **taʼăvâh** (dainty): This term signifies a longing, delight, or desire. It can describe something pleasant, like the tree that was **pleasant** to the eyes in the garden of Eden [[Genesis 3:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2092}}` is concentrated in its singular, potent application.
* **The Physicality of Suffering:** The word demonstrates that spiritual and emotional anguish, as experienced by Job, has a profound physical impact. It turns the life-sustaining act of eating into a source of revulsion, showing how suffering can permeate every aspect of a person's being.
* **Reversal of God-given Desire:** God provides food `{{H3978}}` as a good gift to sustain life `{{H2416}}` and be a source of delight `{{H8378}}`. The act of abhorring `{{H2092}}` this provision signifies a state of existence so broken that natural, God-ordained desires are inverted.
* **The Condition of the Soul:** The verse explicitly connects this abhorrence to the "soul" `{{H5315}}`. This highlights that the loathing is not merely a symptom of illness but a condition of the inner self, where the very core of a person rejects that which is meant for their good.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2092}}` **zâham** is a rare but vivid word whose single use provides a powerful insight into the nature of suffering. Its appearance in [[Job 33:20]] illustrates a state of anguish so complete that it corrupts the fundamental human need for sustenance. The word encapsulates the utter brokenness of a person whose life and soul have come to loathe the very things that should nourish them.
TRV