### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **zôw**, represented by `{{H2097}}`, is a demonstrative pronoun meaning **this or that; that, this**. Though it appears only **2 times** in **2 unique verses**, it serves a critical function by pointing to a specific subject, promise, or consequence, adding emphasis and clarity to the statement.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H2097}}` highlights a sharp contrast between divine judgment and covenantal promise. In Hosea, it points to the specific consequence of Israel's unfaithfulness: after returning but not to God, becoming like a "deceitful bow," the prophet declares, "**this** shall be their derision in the land of Egypt" [[Hosea 7:16]]. Conversely, in Psalms, the word is used to specify God's testimony as a condition for blessing: if David's children keep the covenant and the testimony "**that** I shall teach them," their lineage will continue on the throne [[Psalms 132:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the two outcomes pointed to by `{{H2097}}`:
* `{{H7725}}` **shûwb** (to turn back): This primitive root describes Israel's action of turning, but not toward God, which leads to judgment [[Hosea 7:16]]. It also describes the path to restoration, as when the wicked man is called to **return** to the LORD for mercy [[Isaiah 55:7]].
* `{{H7423}}` **rᵉmîyâh** (deceitful): This term, meaning remissness or treachery, describes the bow to which the unfaithful people are compared [[Hosea 7:16]]. A **deceitful** tongue is associated with violence and lies [[Micah 6:12]].
* `{{H3933}}` **laʻag** (derision): This is the direct consequence of unfaithfulness pointed to by `{{H2097}}` in Hosea. It is often linked with reproach and scorn from one's enemies [[Psalms 79:4]].
* `{{H3925}}` **lâmad** (to teach): In contrast, this is the action God promises in [[Psalms 132:12]], where keeping His testimony leads to blessing. The word signifies divine instruction that leads to profit and guidance in God's way [[Isaiah 48:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2097}}` is derived entirely from what it specifies. It acts as a definitive marker to underscore key spiritual principles.
* **The Certainty of Consequence:** In [[Hosea 7:16]], the use of **"this"** makes the coming derision an unavoidable and specific result of Israel's actions, demonstrating that turning away from God has a definite, negative outcome.
* **The Condition of Covenant:** In [[Psalms 132:12]], **"that"** isolates God's testimony as the precise element that must be kept to secure the generational promise. It highlights obedience to God's teaching as the foundation of continued blessing.
* **Contrasting Fates:** The two uses of `{{H2097}}` starkly contrast two paths: one of deceit that leads to derision, and one of heeding divine teaching that leads to an enduring throne.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2097}}` is a simple demonstrative pronoun whose significance lies in its power to specify. While rare, its appearances are pivotal, serving to point directly to either the dire consequences of disobedience or the foundational conditions for receiving God's covenant blessings. It illustrates how even the smallest words in scripture can provide focus and underscore the clear choice between two destinies.
TRV