### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ṭûwl**, represented by `{{H2904}}`, is a primitive root that signifies a forceful action of throwing or moving. Its base definition is to **pitch over or reel; hence (transitively) to cast down or out; carry away, (utterly) cast (down, forth, out), send out**. It appears **14 times** across **14 unique verses** in the Bible, illustrating acts of both divine power and human volition.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H2904}}` is used to describe literal, decisive actions. In the story of Jonah, the terrified mariners **cast forth** `{{H2904}}` their cargo into the sea to lighten the ship [[Jonah 1:5]]. The word is used again when they **cast him forth** `{{H2904}}` into the sea, which then ceases its raging [[Jonah 1:15]]. In a display of violent intent, King Saul twice **cast** `{{H2904}}` a javelin at David, attempting to smite him ([[1 Samuel 18:11]]; [[1 Samuel 20:33]]). The term is also applied to God's sovereign actions, such as when He **sent out** `{{H2904}}` a great wind [[Jonah 1:4]] or when He decrees judgment to **cast** `{{H2904}}` the people of Judah into exile ([[Jeremiah 16:13]]; [[Jeremiah 22:26]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for the actions associated with `{{H2904}}`:
* `{{H7993}}` **shâlak** (to throw out, down or away): This term is a close synonym and is used in parallel with `{{H2904}}` to emphasize the totality of expulsion. In [[Jeremiah 22:28]], Coniah and his descendants are **cast out** `{{H7993}}` and then **cast** `{{H2904}}` into a foreign land.
* `{{H5375}}` **nâsâʼ** (to lift, bear up, carry away): This word often describes the action preceding the cast. Jonah instructs the sailors to **Take me up** `{{H5375}}`, and **cast me forth** `{{H2904}}` into the sea [[Jonah 1:12]], an action they then perform.
* `{{H5307}}` **nâphal** (to fall): This word describes a related outcome. A key distinction is made in [[Psalms 37:24]], which states that though a person may **fall** `{{H5307}}`, he will not be utterly **cast down** `{{H2904}}`, because the Lord provides support.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2904}}` is demonstrated through its various applications, highlighting themes of judgment, sovereignty, and preservation.
* **Divine Sovereignty and Judgment:** The word is frequently used to portray God's absolute power. He can **cast** `{{H2904}}` nations into exile [[Jeremiah 16:13]] or **carry away** `{{H2904}}` individuals as part of his judgment [[Isaiah 22:17]]. This power extends to matters of chance, as the lot is **cast** `{{H2904}}` into the lap, but the LORD determines the outcome [[Proverbs 16:33]].
* **Human Action and Intent:** The act of casting is not limited to God. It illustrates the consequences of human choice, whether it is Saul's murderous rage [[1 Samuel 20:33]] or the mariners' desperate act of sacrifice to appease the storm [[Jonah 1:15]].
* **Divine Preservation:** In a powerful contrast, the word is used to define the limits of calamity for the righteous. The promise in [[Psalms 37:24]] that a fallen man will not be "utterly **cast down**" `{{H2904}}` underscores God's role as the one who upholds his people, preventing their complete overthrow.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2904}}` is a potent verb that captures a sense of forceful and definitive expulsion or projection. Whether describing a javelin thrown in anger, cargo jettisoned in a storm, or a nation sent into exile by divine decree, **ṭûwl** conveys an irreversible action. Its usage reveals a core biblical tension between the power that casts down—be it human sin or divine judgment—and the greater power of God who ultimately upholds the righteous.
TRV