### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ṭâphaph**, represented by `{{H2952}}`, is a primitive root used to describe a specific type of movement. Its definition is to trip with short steps coquettishly, or to **mince**. It appears only **1 times** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible, making it a highly specific and descriptive term used to illustrate a particular attitude.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{H2952}}` is in [[Isaiah 3:16]], within a prophecy against the pride of Jerusalem. The LORD describes the "daughters of Zion" as haughty, walking with "wanton eyes, walking and **mincing** as they go." In this context, the word is not neutral; it characterizes a walk that is deliberately affected and flirtatious, serving as an outward expression of the inner pride and arrogance that God is condemning.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the same passage help clarify the meaning of `{{H2952}}`:
* `{{H1361}}` **gâbahh** (to be haughty): This word describes the root cause of the behavior. The "mincing" walk in [[Isaiah 3:16]] is a direct result of the daughters of Zion being **haughty**. This same term is used elsewhere to describe a heart "lifted up" in pride [[Ezekiel 28:2]] and stands in contrast to God who is rightfully exalted [[Isaiah 5:16]].
* `{{H3212}}` **yâlak** (to walk): This is the general verb for walking or going, and it is used twice in [[Isaiah 3:16]]. The use of `{{H2952}}` specifies the *manner* of walking. While `{{H3212}}` can describe a righteous walk with God [[Micah 6:8]], here it sets the stage for the specific, negative action of "mincing."
* `{{H8265}}` **sâqar** (to ogle, i.e. blink coquettishly; wanton): This term appears in [[Isaiah 3:16]] to describe the action of the eyes, just as `{{H2952}}` describes the action of the feet. Both words work together to paint a vivid picture of coquettish and prideful behavior.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2952}}` is tied directly to its singular, pointed usage.
* **The Outward Expression of Inner Pride:** The word powerfully illustrates how an internal spiritual condition, in this case haughtiness `{{H1361}}`, manifests in physical actions. The "mincing" walk is a visible symptom of a heart turned away from humility.
* **A Portrait of Worldliness:** In [[Isaiah 3:16]], `{{H2952}}` is part of a larger divine critique of vanity and arrogance. The behavior it describes is presented as offensive to God and subject to His judgment.
* **A Contrast to Godly Humility:** The affected walk described by `{{H2952}}` stands in stark opposition to the kind of conduct God desires, which is to "walk humbly" with Him [[Micah 6:8]]. It serves as a negative example, highlighting the virtue of a modest and unpretentious posture before God.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2952}}` **ṭâphaph** is a rare but potent Hebrew verb. Its sole use in [[Isaiah 3:16]] provides a specific and memorable image of a coquettish, mincing walk. It functions as a clear biblical example of how external posture and behavior are directly linked to the inner state of the heart, serving as a warning against the kind of pride and arrogance that invites divine judgment.
TRV