The Hebrew word ṭaʻam, represented by H2940, encompasses a wide spectrum of meanings originating from its literal sense of taste. It appears 13 times across 12 unique verses in the Bible. While its root means "a taste," it is figuratively extended to mean perception, intelligence, a mandate, advice, behaviour, decree, discretion, judgment, reason, or understanding.
In its biblical usage, H2940 demonstrates a clear progression from the physical to the abstract. Its literal meaning is found in descriptions of the manna, whose taste was like wafers with honey Exodus 16:31 or fresh oil Numbers 11:8. The word is also used to ask if there is any taste in the white of an egg Job 6:6. Figuratively, it describes personal conduct, as when David changed his behaviour 1 Samuel 21:13. It also signifies sound counsel, as when David blessed Abigail for her advice 1 Samuel 25:33. In a position of authority, it becomes a royal decree, such as the one issued by the king of Nineveh Jonah 3:7.
Several related words help clarify the scope of H2940:
- H2938 ṭâʻam (to taste): This is the primitive root from which H2940 is derived. The connection is direct, as seen in the decree H2940 of Nineveh that forbade anyone to taste H2938 food or water Jonah 3:7.
- H1847 daʻath (knowledge): This word is often paired with the intellectual aspect of H2940. The psalmist prays to be taught "good judgment H2940 and knowledge H1847," showing their close relationship Psalms 119:66.
- H8602 tâphêl (unsavoury): This term is used in direct contrast to H2940 in Job's question, "Can that which is unsavoury be eaten without salt? or is there any taste H2940 in the white of an egg?" Job 6:6, highlighting the literal meaning of taste by its absence.
The theological and figurative weight of H2940 is significant, linking physical sensation to moral and intellectual discernment.
- Judgment and Discretion: The word is a key element of wisdom. The psalmist asks God for "good judgment" Psalms 119:66, while Proverbs warns that a "fair woman which is without discretion" is like a jewel in a swine's snout Proverbs 11:22. God can also remove this faculty, as he "taketh away the understanding of the aged" Job 12:20.
- Reason and Behavior: H2940 connects internal reasoning to external action. A sluggard considers himself wiser than seven men who can render a reason Proverbs 26:16. It also describes David's calculated change of behaviour before his enemies 1 Samuel 21:13.
- Authoritative Mandate: The concept of discernment extends to authoritative rule. The king of Nineveh's decree is a H2940, representing a judgment that is proclaimed and enforced Jonah 3:7.
In summary, H2940 is a versatile term that bridges the gap between the physical and the metaphysical. It begins with the literal sense of taste and expands to cover a range of cognitive and moral faculties, including judgment, discretion, reason, and advice. It demonstrates how scripture uses a tangible concept to explore the depths of human perception, wisdom, and the application of authority.
TRV