a primitive root; to drive on; figuratively, to follow close; continual.
Transliteration:ṭârad
Pronunciation:taw-rad'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew root H2956 (ṭârad) is a primitive verb carrying a core semantic range centered on forceful movement, expulsion, and persistence. Its primary meaning, "to drive on," implies a compelling or forceful action that causes something or someone to move from one place to another, often against their will. This can manifest as physical expulsion or the forceful herding of animals. Figuratively, the root extends to "to follow close," suggesting a relentless pursuit or a persistent, unyielding adherence. This aspect emphasizes continuity and an unceasing nature. The derived sense of "continual" further highlights this notion of ongoing, uninterrupted action or state, often implying a constant pressure or presence. Thus, H2956 encapsulates ideas of compulsion, expulsion, diligent pursuit, and an enduring state.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The occurrences of H2956 in the Hebrew Bible illustrate its diverse applications, predominantly in the Hiphil (causative) stem, meaning "to cause to drive" or "to expel."
In the context of conflict and judgment, H2956 is used to describe the forceful expulsion or pursuit of individuals or groups. For instance, in [[Judges 20:43]], the Israelites are depicted as having "pursued them closely" (וַיַּטְרִידוּם), indicating a relentless and thorough chase of the Benjamites. This usage underscores the idea of driving an enemy away without respite. Similarly, in contexts of divine or human judgment, the word conveys banishment or removal from a place of safety or blessing. [[Job 18:18]] portrays the wicked as being "driven from light into darkness" (יְטָרְדֻהוּ), vividly illustrating a forceful expulsion from a state of well-being into one of misery. This highlights the severe consequences of wickedness.
The root also appears in more personal, albeit still forceful, contexts. [[Proverbs 19:26]] speaks of a son who "drives out his mother" (יַטְרִיד), depicting a cruel and unnatural act of expulsion from the home. This demonstrates the word's capacity to describe human depravity and the violation of familial bonds. While less frequent, the sense of "continual" or "persistent" can be inferred from the underlying notion of "following close" or "driving on" without cessation, though this is often more of an adjectival nuance rather than a direct verbal translation in most instances. The contexts consistently emphasize a dynamic action of moving, often with an element of compulsion or persistence.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of H2956 intersects with several other Hebrew terms. For the sense of "driving out" or "expelling," it shares conceptual space with verbs such as `{{H1644}}` (garash), meaning "to drive out, cast out," often used for divine expulsion from the land or presence, as seen in the expulsion from Eden. Another related term is `{{H5080}}` (nadach), which signifies "to thrust, cast out," frequently in the context of scattering or banishing.
Regarding the aspect of "pursuit" or "following close," H2956 aligns with `{{H7291}}` (radaph), a very common verb for "to pursue, chase," often used in military contexts or for the pursuit of righteousness or evil. While `{{H7291}}` emphasizes the act of chasing, H2956 often adds the nuance of forceful expulsion as a result of that pursuit.
The concept of "continual" or "persistent" links H2956 to broader themes of endurance, unwavering commitment, or relentless pressure. While no single direct synonym captures this adjectival sense perfectly, it resonates with the steadfastness implied in concepts like `{{H8548}}` (tamid), meaning "continually" or "always," often used for regular offerings or divine presence.
Thematically, H2956 is associated with divine judgment, human cruelty, the consequences of sin, and the relentless nature of both divine and human actions.
### Theological Significance
The theological implications of H2956 are profound, particularly in its portrayal of divine sovereignty and human agency. When God is the subject, the act of "driving out" (Hiphil of H2956) signifies His righteous judgment and covenant faithfulness. He "drives out" nations before Israel, fulfilling His promises and demonstrating His power over the land and its inhabitants. This act of expulsion is not arbitrary but serves to establish His people and uphold His justice. It underscores God's active involvement in history, shaping destinies and executing His will.
Conversely, when humans are the subject, H2956 often highlights the destructive capacity of sin and human depravity. The act of "driving out" a parent or a fellow human being reveals a profound breakdown of moral order and compassion. It speaks to the alienation and suffering caused by human wickedness, leading to banishment from community, safety, or well-being. This can be seen as a microcosm of humanity's broader separation from God due to sin, where sin itself "drives" individuals away from the light of divine presence.
The figurative sense of "following close" or "continual" can also carry theological weight. It can allude to the persistent nature of divine wrath or blessing, or the relentless pursuit of consequences for actions. It speaks to the unwavering nature of God's character, whether in His justice or His steadfast love, which continually pursues humanity.
### Summary
The Hebrew root H2956 (ṭârad) is a dynamic verb fundamentally signifying forceful motion, encompassing meanings of "to drive on," "to expel," and "to follow closely" or "to be continual." Its biblical occurrences frequently depict a compelling action, whether physical expulsion in judgment (e.g., [[Job 18:18]]) or relentless pursuit in conflict (e.g., [[Judges 20:43]]). The word vividly portrays the consequences of both divine decree and human depravity, such as the harsh act of a son "driving out" his mother ([[Proverbs 19:26]]). Theologically, H2956 illuminates God's sovereign power in executing judgment and clearing the way for His purposes, as well as the devastating impact of human sin in causing alienation and suffering. It underscores a sense of persistence and unwavering action, whether in divine justice or the relentless nature of human choices.
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