a primitive root; to stretch a bow, as an archer; (bow-) shot.
Transliteration:ṭâchâh
Pronunciation:taw-khaw'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew root ṭâchâh (`{{H2909}}`) is a primitive verb primarily signifying the action of "to stretch a bow" or "to draw a bow," which naturally leads to the act of "to shoot" an arrow. Its semantic range is tightly bound to the practice of archery, encompassing both the preparation (drawing the bowstring taut) and the execution (releasing the arrow towards a target). The term conveys a sense of deliberate aim, focused energy, and the resultant projectile motion. While the base definition points to the physical act, its singular biblical occurrence lends it a profound metaphorical weight.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb ṭâchâh (`{{H2909}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, making its sole occurrence particularly impactful and deserving of careful study.
* **[[Lamentations 3:12]]**: "He bent his bow and set me as a target; he shot his arrows at me." (וַיִּדְרֹךְ קַשְׁתּוֹ וַיַּצִּיבֵנִי כַּמַּטָּרָה יִטְחָה חִצָּיו עָלָי)
In this poignant verse from the book of Lamentations, the prophet is expressing the profound suffering and desolation experienced by Jerusalem and its people, attributing their plight directly to God's hand. The imagery is vivid and anthropomorphic, depicting God as a divine archer. The preceding verb, dārak (`{{H1869}}`, "to tread, bend"), describes the action of bending the bow, preparing for the shot. The subsequent verb, yāṣab (`{{H3320}}`, "to set, place"), describes the setting of the "target" (מַטָּרָה, `{{H4307}}`), which is the lamenter himself. It is in this context that ṭâchâh (יִטְחָה) is used, signifying the decisive act of "shooting his arrows." The use of ṭâchâh here emphasizes the deliberate, precise, and inescapable nature of the divine judgment or affliction. The suffering is not random or accidental but a direct, purposeful act from the Almighty.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of ṭâchâh (`{{H2909}}`) is illuminated by its association with several related terms and concepts:
* **Bow (קֶשֶׁת, `{{H7198}}`)**: The primary instrument for the action of ṭâchâh, representing power, warfare, and sometimes divine covenant (e.g., in the rainbow).
* **Arrow (חֵץ, `{{H2671}}`)**: The projectile released by the action of ṭâchâh, often symbolizing swiftness, judgment, or divine instruments.
* **Target (מַטָּרָה, `{{H4307}}`)**: The intended object of the shot, highlighting the precision and intentionality of the archer's act, as seen in [[Lamentations 3:12]].
* **To shoot/cast (יָרָה, `{{H3384}}`)**: A more general verb for "to throw, cast, shoot," which shares semantic overlap but lacks the specific nuance of drawing a bow inherent in ṭâchâh. Other verbs like rāmah (`{{H7411}}`, "to cast, shoot") or nāṣal (`{{H5337}}`, "to draw out, deliver") can also relate to the action of drawing or shooting, but ṭâchâh uniquely captures the full arc of the archer's motion.
* **Divine Judgment/Affliction**: The concept of God using "arrows" as instruments of judgment or discipline is a recurring motif in the Old Testament (e.g., [[Deuteronomy 32:23]], [[Psalm 7:13]], [[Ezekiel 5:16]]). ṭâchâh vividly portrays the intentionality behind such divine acts.
### Theological Significance
The singular appearance of ṭâchâh (`{{H2909}}`) in [[Lamentations 3:12]] imbues it with profound theological significance. It presents a stark yet crucial aspect of God's character and interaction with humanity:
1. **Divine Sovereignty and Intentionality**: The image of God as an archer who "shoots His arrows" underscores His absolute sovereignty. The suffering experienced by the people is not random or accidental; it is a direct, purposeful act from the Divine Hand. This implies that even in the deepest anguish, there is a divine purpose, however inscrutable it may seem to the afflicted.
2. **Precision of Judgment/Discipline**: The act of shooting an arrow implies a target and a deliberate aim. God's actions are precise; His "arrows" of judgment or discipline hit their intended mark. This suggests that God's dealings are not arbitrary but are perfectly calibrated to His divine will and justice.
3. **Irresistibility of Divine Action**: Once the arrow is shot, its trajectory is set, and its impact is unavoidable. This conveys the irresistible nature of God's decrees and actions. When God "shoots," His will is accomplished, and there is no escape from His chosen path, whether it be for discipline or ultimate restoration.
4. **Reverent Acknowledgment of Suffering's Source**: For the lamenting prophet, attributing suffering directly to God's "shot" is not an act of blasphemy but a profound, albeit painful, acknowledgment of divine authorship. It is a testament to the belief that nothing, not even the most severe affliction, falls outside the purview of God's sovereign plan. This perspective, though challenging, can lead to a deeper understanding of repentance and reliance on divine mercy.
### Summary
The Hebrew root ṭâchâh (`{{H2909}}`) fundamentally describes the action of "to stretch a bow" and "to shoot" an arrow. Its solitary, yet potent, appearance in [[Lamentations 3:12]] is highly significant. There, it powerfully depicts God as a deliberate and precise archer, directing "arrows" of affliction or judgment towards His people. This vivid imagery underscores several crucial theological truths: the absolute sovereignty and intentionality of God in all circumstances, the precision of His divine discipline, and the irresistible nature of His will. While portraying a challenging aspect of divine action, ṭâchâh ultimately deepens our understanding of God's purposeful engagement with humanity, even amidst profound suffering, compelling a reverent recognition of His ultimate control.
TRV