a primitive root; or perhaps a denominative from טֵפַח, from dandling on the palms; to flatten out or extend (as a tent); figuratively, to nurse achild (as promotive of growth); span, swaddle.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ṭâphach**, represented by `{{H2946}}`, is a primitive root with a dual meaning. It is used to signify the act of flattening out or extending, as in to **span** the heavens, and figuratively, to **swaddle** or nurse a child. Appearing only **2 times** in **2 unique verses**, its rarity highlights two distinct aspects of God's character: His creative power and His nurturing care.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two uses of `{{H2946}}` provide a powerful contrast. In [[Isaiah 48:13]], the word demonstrates God's immense power as the Creator, declaring that His right hand has **spanned** the heavens. This act of extending creation is a display of ultimate authority. Conversely, in [[Lamentations 2:22]], the word illustrates profound intimacy and sorrow. The speaker laments that the very ones they have **swaddled** and brought up have been consumed by an enemy, showing a context of personal care met with tragic loss in the day of the LORD's anger.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illuminate the contexts in which **ṭâphach** is found:
* `{{H3245}}` **yâçad** (to set, found, establish): This word is used alongside **ṭâphach** in [[Isaiah 48:13]], where God has "laid the foundation" of the earth. It reinforces the theme of God's sovereign power in creation.
* `{{H7235}}` **râbâh** (to increase, bring up, nourish): Appearing in [[Lamentations 2:22]], this word is used in parallel with "swaddled" to describe how the children were "brought up." It emphasizes the parental and nurturing aspect of the relationship.
* `{{H7121}}` **qârâʼ** (to call out to): This word appears in both occurrences. In [[Isaiah 48:13]], God's creative power is such that when He does **call** to the heavens, they stand up together. In [[Lamentations 2:22]], it is God who has **called** the terrors that lead to destruction, linking His voice to acts of both creation and judgment.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H2946}}` is drawn from its two distinct applications:
* **Sovereign Creative Power:** The use of "span" in [[Isaiah 48:13]] establishes God's role as the measure and master of the cosmos. With His own hand `{{H3027}}` and right hand `{{H3225}}`, He lays the foundation `{{H3245}}` of the earth `{{H776}}` and extends the heavens `{{H8064}}`, demonstrating His omnipotence.
* **Intimate Nurturing Care:** The term "swaddled" in [[Lamentations 2:22]] paints a picture of God's tender, parental relationship with His people. It signifies protection, care, and the promotion of growth, a deeply personal action.
* **Judgment and Loss:** The context of [[Lamentations 2:22]] reveals the consequence of sin. The same children who were swaddled are ultimately consumed by the enemy `{{H341}}` as a result of the LORD's `{{H3068}}` anger `{{H639}}`, showing that the God who nurtures will also execute judgment when His covenant is broken.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2946}}` **ṭâphach** encapsulates a profound duality in God's nature. Though used sparingly, it portrays Him as both the immeasurable Creator who can **span** the universe and the intimate caregiver who can **swaddle** a child. This contrast provides a complete picture of a God whose immense power is matched by His personal care, and whose judgment is a tragic consequence of spurning that care.
TRV