### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ziqnâh**, represented by `{{H2209}}`, is the feminine term for **old age**. It appears **6 times** in **6 unique verses** in the Bible. This word specifically refers to the later period of a person's life, a time often characterized by both physical vulnerability and a unique opportunity to experience God's enduring faithfulness.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H2209}}` is used to mark a significant, and often challenging, phase of life. It is presented as a time of potential weakness, as the psalmist pleads with God, "Cast me not off in the time of **old age**; forsake me not when my strength faileth" [[Psalms 71:9]]. This vulnerability is also seen in the lives of kings, where Solomon's heart was turned away from God when he was **old** [[1 Kings 11:4]], and King Asa became diseased in his feet in his **old age** [[1 Kings 15:23]]. In contrast, God promises to sustain His people through this stage, declaring, "And even to your **old age** I am he; and even to hoar hairs will I carry you" [[Isaiah 46:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to frame the concept of old age and its associated experiences:
* `{{H7872}}` **sêybâh** (old age; gray hairs): This term, often used alongside `{{H2209}}`, describes the physical signs of aging. God's promise to carry His people extends "to your old age" and "to **hoar hairs**" [[Isaiah 46:4]], linking the life stage with its visible evidence.
* `{{H3581}}` **kôach** (vigor, force, strength): This word represents the physical vitality that diminishes in old age. The psalmist's fear of abandonment is tied directly to when his **strength** fails in his old age [[Psalms 71:9]].
* `{{H5445}}` **çâbal** (to carry, be burdensome): This verb highlights God's response to the frailty of old age. While human strength fades, God promises that He Himself will **carry** His people through this time [[Isaiah 46:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H2209}}` revolves around the contrast between human frailty and divine faithfulness.
* **A Time of Vulnerability:** Old age is depicted as a period where physical strength fails [[Psalms 71:9]] and disease can take hold [[1 Kings 15:23]], leading to a natural fear of being forsaken.
* **A Test of Spiritual Endurance:** The final stage of life can be a test of one's devotion. Solomon, despite his wisdom, failed this test when his heart turned from the LORD in his **old age** [[1 Kings 11:4]].
* **A Stage for God's Sustaining Power:** The weakness of old age provides the backdrop for God's strength to be revealed. The psalmist prays to continue showing God's power [[Psalms 71:18]], and God explicitly promises to carry and deliver His people through their final years [[Isaiah 46:4]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2209}}` defines the season of **old age** as a complex period in the biblical narrative. It is realistically portrayed as a time of diminishing human strength and potential spiritual decline. More profoundly, it serves as a crucial time for God to demonstrate His unwavering faithfulness, proving that His commitment to His people does not wane even when their own power and vitality do.
TRV