### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ṭâphash**, represented by `{{H2954}}`, is a primitive root that properly means to be thick. Figuratively, it conveys the idea of being stupid or fat. This specific term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** within the entirety of the biblical text, making its single usage particularly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H2954}}` is in [[Psalms 119:70]], where it describes a spiritual condition. The verse states, "Their heart is as **fat** as grease; but I delight in thy law." In this context, **ṭâphash** is used metaphorically to characterize a heart that has become dull, insensitive, and unresponsive to God's instruction. It stands in direct contrast to the psalmist, whose delight is found in the law, suggesting that a "fat" heart is one that is spiritually calloused and closed off.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several words from its only context help illuminate the meaning of `{{H2954}}`:
* `{{H3820}}` **lêb** (the heart): This word refers to the center of human feelings, will, and intellect. The use of **ṭâphash** to describe the **heart** [[Psalms 119:70]] indicates that the spiritual dullness is not merely an external issue but a condition of one's inner being.
* `{{H2459}}` **cheleb** (fat, grease, richest part): This word is used in a simile to describe the state of the heart in [[Psalms 119:70]], "as fat as **grease**." While **cheleb** can refer to the choicest part in offerings [[Genesis 4:4]], here it helps illustrate the excessive, unhealthy state of a heart that has become thick and insensitive.
* `{{H8173}}` **shâʻaʻ** (to look upon, delight, please): This term provides the direct contrast to the state of **ṭâphash**. While some have a heart that is fat and dull, the psalmist's response is to **delight** in God's law [[Psalms 119:70]], indicating an active, joyful engagement with God.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2954}}` is focused on the internal state of a person's spirit.
* **Spiritual Insensitivity:** To have a "fat" heart is to be spiritually unresponsive and stupid. It describes a condition where one is calloused against the things of God, unable to perceive or value His precepts.
* **The Condition of the Heart:** The use of **ṭâphash** underscores the biblical emphasis on the heart as the core of a person's relationship with God. [[Proverbs 4:23]] urges one to keep the heart with all diligence, and a heart described as **ṭâphash** is one that has failed in this regard.
* **A Contrast with Righteous Delight:** The term's usage in [[Psalms 119:70]] creates a sharp dichotomy. It contrasts the passive, dull state of the wicked with the active, joyful **delight** `{{H8173}}` the righteous take in God's **law** `{{H8451}}`.
### Summary
In summary, while **ṭâphash** `{{H2954}}` appears only once in scripture, its metaphorical power is clear. It provides a vivid image for spiritual dullness and insensitivity. Through its singular use in [[Psalms 119:70]], the word powerfully contrasts a heart that is thick, unresponsive, and figuratively stupid with a heart that actively delights in the wisdom and guidance of God's law.
TRV