### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ṭâbal**, represented by `{{H2881}}`, is a primitive root that means **to dip, to immerse,** or **plunge**. It appears **16 times** across **16 unique verses** in the Bible, indicating a specific but significant role. The action it describes can be mundane, ritualistic, or figurative, involving the immersion of an object or person into a liquid.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H2881}}` is frequently associated with acts of purification and ritual. Priests would **dip** a finger or hyssop in blood as part of sacrificial rites ([[Leviticus 4:6]], [[Exodus 12:22]]). A central example of its transformative power is Naaman, who **dipped** himself seven times in the Jordan River and was made clean [[2 Kings 5:14]]. The term is also used in non-ritual contexts, such as Ruth being invited to **dip** her bread in vinegar [[Ruth 2:14]], Jonathan dipping his rod into a honeycomb [[1 Samuel 14:27]], or Joseph's brothers dipping his coat in blood to deceive their father [[Genesis 37:31]]. Figuratively, it can signify a blessing of abundance, as when Asher is prophesied to **dip** his foot in oil [[Deuteronomy 33:24]], or of utter defilement, as when Job fears God will **plunge** him in a ditch [[Job 9:31]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context and consequence of dipping:
* `{{H2891}}` **ṭâhêr**: a primitive root; to be pure or **clean**. This word describes the result of a ritual dipping, as seen when Naaman **dipped** `{{H2881}}` himself and became **clean** `{{H2891}}` [[2 Kings 5:14]].
* `{{H5137}}` **nâzâh**: a primitive root; to **sprinkle**. This action often follows dipping in purification ceremonies, where an object is first dipped `{{H2881}}` and then used to **sprinkle** water or blood to sanctify ([[Leviticus 4:6]], [[Numbers 19:18]]).
* `{{H3381}}` **yârad**: a primitive root; to **descend** or go downwards. This word often precedes the act of immersion, describing the physical movement toward the water, such as when Naaman **went down** `{{H3381}}` to the Jordan to dip himself [[2 Kings 5:14]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H2881}}` is tied to its role in physical representations of spiritual realities.
* **Ritual Purification:** The act of dipping is a cornerstone of the Levitical cleansing system. It is the prescribed method for applying sacrificial blood or purifying water to objects and people, signifying a transition from an unclean to a clean state ([[Leviticus 14:6]], [[Numbers 19:18]]).
* **Transformation and Healing:** Naaman’s healing demonstrates that dipping, when done in obedience to God's word, can bring about miraculous restoration, where his flesh was restored like that of a child [[2 Kings 5:14]].
* **Covenant Action:** At the first Passover, the Israelites were commanded to **dip** hyssop in the blood of a lamb and apply it to their doorposts, an act of faith that secured their protection from judgment [[Exodus 12:22]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2881}}` is a dynamic verb that moves beyond a simple physical action. While it can describe an everyday act like eating, its most profound uses are in the context of ritual and divine encounters. It serves as a physical mechanism for purification, a symbol of covenant obedience, and an illustration of both divine blessing and judgment, showing how a simple immersion can carry immense spiritual weight.
TRV