### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ṭâʻam**, represented by `{{H2938}}`, is a primitive root primarily meaning **to taste**. Appearing 11 times across 10 verses, it also carries the figurative meaning **to perceive**. This dual sense allows the word to describe both a physical sensation and a deeper, more personal form of experiential knowledge or discernment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H2938}}` is used in both its literal and figurative senses. Literally, it describes the physical act of tasting food, as when Jonathan **tasted** a little honey, which enlightened his eyes [[1 Samuel 14:29]]. It also conveys a loss of this physical sense, as when the elderly Barzillai asks if he can still **taste** what he eats or drinks [[2 Samuel 19:35]]. The word is also used to command abstinence, such as the king of Nineveh's decree that neither man nor beast should **taste** anything [[Jonah 3:7]]. Figuratively, it denotes perception, as in the description of a virtuous woman who **perceiveth** that her merchandise is good [[Proverbs 31:18]]. The most significant use combines both senses in the invitation to **taste** and see that the LORD is good [[Psalms 34:8]], implying a direct, personal experience of God's character.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to clarify the meaning of `{{H2938}}`:
* `{{H7200}}` **râʼâh** (to see): This word is frequently paired with **ṭâʻam** to link physical experience with understanding. The command to "O **taste** and **see** that the LORD is good" illustrates a progression from personal trial to confident recognition [[Psalms 34:8]].
* `{{H398}}` **ʼâkal** (to eat): As the broader action of which tasting is a part, this word often appears in the same context. A curse is placed on anyone that **eateth** food, leading to the people not **tasting** any [[1 Samuel 14:24]], and the mouth is said to **taste** meat that one will **eat** [[Job 34:3]].
* `{{H3045}}` **yâdaʻ** (to know): This term for knowledge or discernment is used in parallel with **ṭâʻam**. Barzillai questions his ability to **discern** between good and evil immediately before questioning his ability to **taste** his food, linking the decline of his physical senses with his overall perception [[2 Samuel 19:35]].
* `{{H974}}` **bâchan** (to try, test): This word appears in a direct parallel structure, where the ear **tries** words just as the mouth **tastes** his meat, framing taste as a method of testing and investigation ([[Job 12:11]], [[Job 34:3]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2938}}` is centered on the concept of experiential faith.
* **Experiential Knowledge of God:** The invitation in [[Psalms 34:8]] to **taste** and see that the Lord is good moves beyond intellectual assent. It calls for a personal, sensory experience of God's character, encouraging believers to test His goodness for themselves.
* **Spiritual Discernment:** The word is used to describe a faculty for judgment and perception. Just as the mouth **tastes** meat to determine its quality [[Job 12:11]], a person can **perceive** that an endeavor is good and profitable [[Proverbs 31:18]]. This extends the meaning from a physical sense to a spiritual or practical wisdom.
* **Human Frailty and Divine Sufficiency:** The literal loss of taste signifies the decline and limitations of old age [[2 Samuel 19:35]]. In contrast, the call to **taste** the Lord’s goodness is an invitation to experience something eternal that never fades or loses its quality.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2938}}` is a rich term that bridges the physical and the spiritual. While its literal meaning is to **taste**, its figurative application as **perceive** gives it significant depth. It is used to describe everything from the simple act of eating to the profound, personal experience of God's goodness. It teaches that true understanding, whether of earthly matters or divine character, often comes through direct, personal trial and experience.
TRV