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.
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.
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).
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.
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