by transposition for זְוָעָה; agitation, maltreatment; [idiom] removed, trouble.
Transliteration:zaʻăvâh
Pronunciation:zah-av-aw'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word זַעֲוָה (zaʻăvâh), Strong's `{{H2189}}`, carries a core meaning related to intense agitation, distress, and the state of being an object of dread or maltreatment. Its definition explicitly notes it as a transposition of זְוָעָה (zevāʻâ), `{{H2188}}`, which signifies trembling, terror, or horror. This etymological link highlights a semantic range encompassing internal turmoil and an external manifestation of fear or repulsion. The term denotes a profound state of disquiet, often implying a condition brought about by severe trouble or divine judgment, leading to one being "removed" or driven away in a state of terror, or becoming a spectacle of such distress to others. Thus, זַעֲוָה encapsulates both the experience of profound disturbance and the effect of causing such disturbance in observers.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term זַעֲוָה (zaʻăvâh) is remarkably rare in the Hebrew Bible, appearing only once, in [[Deuteronomy 28:25]]. This singular occurrence is within the extensive list of curses pronounced upon Israel for disobedience to the Mosaic covenant. The verse reads: "The Lord will cause you to be defeated before your enemies; you shall go out one way against them and flee seven ways before them. And you shall become a horror (לְזַעֲוָה) to all the kingdoms of the earth."
In this context, זַעֲוָה describes the resultant state of the disobedient nation. It is not merely an internal feeling of dread, but an outward condition where Israel becomes an object of terror, dismay, or an appalling spectacle to surrounding nations. Their defeat and scattering will be so complete and devastating that it will serve as a terrifying example or warning to others. The use of זַעֲוָה here underscores the severity of divine judgment, transforming a once-blessed nation into a public display of divine displeasure and a source of horror for all who witness their downfall. The implication of "maltreatment" or being "removed" from their land due to this state of agitation and defeat is palpable.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct lexical relative to זַעֲוָה (zaʻăvâh) is זְוָעָה (zevāʻâ), `{{H2188}}`, from which it is derived by transposition. Both words share the semantic field of trembling, terror, and horror, with זְוָעָה appearing more frequently (e.g., [[Isaiah 28:19]], [[Jeremiah 15:4]]). Other related Hebrew terms that convey aspects of fear, dread, or shaking include:
* פחד (paḥad), `{{H6343}}`: terror, dread, often associated with a sudden, overwhelming fear.
* חרדה (ḥārādâ), `{{H2731}}`: trembling, anxiety, often in response to a threat.
* רעד (raʻad), `{{H7493}}`: trembling, quaking, often physical.
* אֵימָה (ʾêmāh), `{{H367}}`: dread, terror, often divinely inspired.
The concept of Israel becoming an object of horror or a byword among nations due to divine judgment is a recurring theme in prophetic literature, linking זַעֲוָה to broader theological concepts of covenant fidelity, judgment, and the consequences of sin.
### Theological Significance
The singular appearance of זַעֲוָה (zaʻăvâh) in [[Deuteronomy 28:25]] imbues it with profound theological weight within the Deuteronomic covenant framework. It represents a dire consequence of Israel's potential apostasy and disobedience. The state of being a זַעֲוָה signifies not merely defeat, but a complete loss of divine favor and protection, leading to an utterly debased and terrifying existence in the eyes of the world.
This word highlights God's absolute sovereignty and His commitment to upholding the terms of His covenant, both in blessing and in curse. The nation's transformation into a "horror" is a public declaration of their failure and God's righteous judgment. It serves as a stark warning, emphasizing that covenant blessings are contingent upon obedience, and the alternative is a humiliating and terrifying state of disfavor. The theological implication is that God's people, if unfaithful, will not only suffer internal turmoil and defeat but will also become a visible testament to the severe consequences of rejecting divine instruction, thereby bringing dishonor upon the very name of God among the nations.
### Summary
זַעֲוָה (zaʻăvâh), `{{H2189}}`, is a potent Hebrew term signifying intense agitation, maltreatment, and the state of being an object of dread or horror. Derived from `{{H2188}}` (זְוָעָה), it encapsulates both internal terror and the external manifestation of a terrifying or appalling condition. Its sole biblical occurrence in [[Deuteronomy 28:25]] powerfully illustrates the severe consequences of covenant disobedience, where Israel is prophesied to become a public spectacle of divine judgment and a source of horror to all nations. Though rare, זַעֲוָה serves as a vivid and sobering reminder of the gravity of God's covenant and the profound implications of human fidelity or infidelity.
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