### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ṭâman**, represented by `{{H2934}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to hide (by covering over)**. It appears **32 times** across **29 unique verses** in the Bible. The core concept of the word involves concealing something, whether it be an object, a person, or a trap, often by burying or covering it.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H2934}}` is used to describe both literal and figurative acts of concealment. Achan confesses to hiding forbidden spoils in the earth under his tent [[Joshua 7:21]]. In a similar act of concealing plunder, lepers take silver and gold and go to **hide** it [[2 Kings 7:8]]. The word also depicts acts of protection and secrecy, as when Rahab **hid** the spies with stalks of flax on her roof [[Joshua 2:6]], or when Moses **hid** the body of an Egyptian he had slain in the sand [[Exodus 2:12]]. A frequent and significant usage involves the setting of traps, where enemies are described as having "privily laid" `{{H2934}}` a snare or **hid** a net to ensnare the righteous ([[Psalms 31:4]], [[Psalms 35:7]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illustrate the nuances of hiding and concealment:
* `{{H2658}}` **châphar** (to delve, to explore; dig): This word is often used in parallel with `{{H2934}}`, highlighting the physical act of making a hiding place. Enemies are described as having **digged** `{{H2658}}` a pit to **hid** `{{H2934}}` snares [[Jeremiah 18:22]], and Jeremiah **digged** `{{H2658}}` to retrieve a girdle he had previously been commanded to **hide** `{{H2934}}` [[Jeremiah 13:7]].
* `{{H6341}}` **pach** (a spring net... gin, ... snare): This is a common object that is hidden. The psalmist repeatedly laments that his enemies have **hid** `{{H2934}}` a **snare** `{{H6341}}` for him ([[Psalms 142:3]], [[Psalms 140:5]]).
* `{{H7568}}` **resheth** (a net): Similar to a snare, a net is frequently the object being hidden with malicious intent. The wicked **hid** `{{H2934}}` their **net** `{{H7568}}` in a pit, only to be caught in it themselves ([[Psalms 9:15]], [[Psalms 35:8]]).
* `{{H3680}}` **kâçâh** (to cover... conceal... hide): This term has a similar meaning to `{{H2934}}`. Job uses both concepts together when he speaks of not having **covered** `{{H3680}}` his transgressions by **hiding** `{{H2934}}` his iniquity in his bosom [[Job 31:33]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2934}}` is primarily seen through its association with human actions, both sinful and symbolic.
* **Hostility and Deception:** The most frequent use of `{{H2934}}` is in the context of setting traps. This illustrates the deceitful and destructive intentions of the wicked, who secretly plot against the righteous ([[Psalms 140:5]], [[Jeremiah 18:22]]).
* **Concealment of Sin:** The act of hiding is linked to guilt and the desire to cover wrongdoing. This is evident when Achan **hid** forbidden items [[Joshua 7:21]], Jacob **hid** foreign gods [[Genesis 35:4]], and Job speaks of the temptation to **hide** iniquity [[Job 31:33]].
* **Prophetic Symbolism:** God uses the act of hiding to communicate his plans. He commands Jeremiah to **hide** a girdle to symbolize the spoiling of Judah's pride [[Jeremiah 13:4-7]] and to **hide** stones as a sign of where Nebuchadnezzar's throne would be set [[Jeremiah 43:9-10]].
* **Hidden Things:** The word can also refer to things that are concealed in a neutral or positive sense, such as an "hidden untimely birth" [[Job 3:16]] or "treasures **hid** in the sand" [[Deuteronomy 33:19]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2934}}` **ṭâman** provides a rich vocabulary for the concept of hiding. While it can denote a simple physical act of covering something, it most often carries a strong negative connotation of secrecy, treachery, and the concealment of sin. From the snares laid by enemies to the symbolic acts of prophets, the word reveals a deep understanding of the hidden motives and actions that shape human and divine encounters in scripture.
TRV