### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **zimrâth**, represented by `{{H2176}}`, means **song** and by implication, **praise** or **instrumental music**. It is a rare term, appearing only **3 times** in 3 unique verses, but its usage is powerful and consistent. It describes a song that stems from a deep recognition of God's saving power.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In each of its biblical occurrences, `{{H2176}}` appears in an almost identical, triumphant declaration. In both the Song of Moses after crossing the Red Sea and in the Psalms, the phrase is "The LORD is my strength and **song**, and he is become my salvation" ([[Exodus 15:2]]; [[Psalms 118:14]]). The prophet Isaiah echoes this, stating, "for the LORD JEHOVAH is my strength and my **song**; he also is become my salvation" [[Isaiah 12:2]]. In every instance, the **song** is directly linked with God's strength and His role as the author of deliverance.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are consistently paired with `{{H2176}}`, forming a unified expression of faith:
* `{{H5797}}` **ʻôz** (strength): This word, defined as "strength in various applications (force, security, majesty, praise)," appears alongside **zimrâth** in every one of its uses. God's strength is presented as the foundation for the believer's song [[Exodus 15:2]].
* `{{H3444}}` **yᵉshûwʻâh** (salvation): This term for "deliverance; hence, aid, victory, prosperity" is the outcome that prompts the **song**. The declaration that God "is become my salvation" is the reason for the praise ([[Psalms 118:14]]; [[Isaiah 12:2]]).
* `{{H3050}}` **Yâhh** (the LORD): This sacred name for God identifies the one to whom the strength and song belong. The phrase consistently begins by identifying the LORD as the source of these gifts ([[Exodus 15:2]]; [[Psalms 118:14]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2176}}` is demonstrated through its specific context:
* **Praise Born from Deliverance:** The **song** is never abstract; it is a direct response to a concrete act of salvation. The phrase "he is become my salvation" shows that the praise is a testimony to a divine rescue experienced personally [[Exodus 15:2]].
* **God as the Source of Worship:** The construction "The LORD is my strength and **song**" implies that God is not merely the object of the song but its very source. The strength He gives becomes the praise that is returned to Him [[Psalms 118:14]].
* **A Confession of Trust:** The use of **zimrâth** is part of a bold, personal confession of faith. It is a declaration of trust in God's power, as highlighted in Isaiah's preface to the statement: "Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid" [[Isaiah 12:2]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2176}}` is a focused and potent term for a **song** of worship. Though used sparingly, it consistently appears within a powerful formula of praise that connects God's might with His salvation. It represents more than melody; it is the exultant, personal, and faith-filled response of one who has experienced the deliverance of the LORD firsthand.
TRV