### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **zânab**, represented by `{{H2179}}`, is a primitive root used as a denominative to mean **to curtail, i.e. cut off the rear; smite the hindmost**. It appears **2 times** in **2 unique verses**, describing a specific and aggressive action directed at the rear of a group.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H2179}}` is presented in two distinct contexts. In [[Deuteronomy 25:18]], it describes a hostile act against Israel, where the enemy **smote the hindmost** of the people, specifically targeting "all that were feeble" when they were faint and weary. In contrast, [[Joshua 10:19]] uses the term as a military command, where Joshua instructs his forces to pursue their enemies and **smite the hindmost** of them to prevent them from reaching the safety of their cities.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the circumstances surrounding this action:
* `{{H2826}}` **châshal** (feeble): This word, meaning "to make (intrans. be) unsteady, i.e. weak; feeble," is used to describe the victims of the attack in [[Deuteronomy 25:18]], emphasizing their vulnerability.
* `{{H341}}` **ʼôyêb** (enemy): Defined as "an adversary; enemy, foe," this term identifies the target of the command in [[Joshua 10:19]], where Israel is to smite the hindmost of their **enemies**.
* `{{H7291}}` **râdaph** (pursue): This root, meaning "to run after (usually with hostile intent)," describes the action leading to the use of `{{H2179}}`. Joshua commands the Israelites to **pursue** their enemies before smiting them [[Joshua 10:19]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H2179}}` is drawn from its application in moral and military contexts.
* **A Cowardly Attack:** In [[Deuteronomy 25:18]], the act of smiting the hindmost is portrayed as a contemptible assault on the weak and vulnerable. It is attributed to an enemy who "feared not God," marking the action as dishonorable.
* **A Strategic Military Maneuver:** The command in [[Joshua 10:19]] reframes the same act as a legitimate tactic of war. It is an order to secure a decisive victory by cutting off the enemy's retreat, ensuring they cannot escape after God has "delivered them into your hand."
* **Focus on the Vulnerable Rear:** In both cases, the word highlights the strategic importance and vulnerability of a group's rearguard, whether it consists of weary stragglers or the last remnants of a fleeing army.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2179}}` provides a highly specific term for attacking the rearguard of a group. Its moral and strategic weight is defined entirely by the context. It can represent either a shameful act of aggression against the feeble, as seen in [[Deuteronomy 25:18]], or a calculated military order to prevent an enemy's escape and complete a victory, as commanded in [[Joshua 10:19]].
TRV