### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ṭârad**, represented by `{{H2956}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to drive on** or, figuratively, **to follow close**; **continual**. Though it appears only **2 times** in **2 unique verses**, its use in the book of Proverbs provides a pointed and memorable illustration of persistent irritation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its scriptural occurrences, `{{H2956}}` is used metaphorically to describe a relentless, wearing-down action. It characterizes the "contentions of a wife" as a **continual** dropping, highlighting a source of domestic strife that is as persistent as a leak [[Proverbs 19:13]]. This imagery is repeated and expanded upon when a **continual** dropping on a very rainy day is explicitly compared to a contentious woman, emphasizing the inescapable and vexing nature of such a situation [[Proverbs 27:15]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context in which `{{H2956}}` is used:
* `{{H1812}}` **deleph** (dropping): This is the noun that `{{H2956}}` directly modifies in both of its appearances. It refers to a **dripping**, creating the core image of a slow, persistent leak that wears one down over time [[Proverbs 19:13]].
* `{{H4079}}` **midyân** (contentions): Defined as {a contest or quarrel}, this word identifies the human behavior being described. The **contentions** of a wife are what are explicitly likened to the "continual dropping" [[Proverbs 19:13]].
* `{{H7737}}` **shâvâh** (alike): This root word, meaning to be level or to resemble, makes the proverb's metaphor explicit. It is used to state that a continual dropping and a contentious woman are **alike**, cementing the comparison for the reader [[Proverbs 27:15]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{H2956}}` carries weight within the wisdom literature of the Bible, offering practical insight.
* **Illustrating Domestic Strife:** The word powerfully illustrates the disruptive and wearying nature of discord within a household. It is used in the context of a "foolish son" being a "calamity" and the "contentions of a wife" being a **continual** dropping, highlighting sources of persistent grief [[Proverbs 19:13]].
* **A Metaphor for Relentlessness:** The concept of a "continual dropping" serves as a vivid biblical metaphor for any vexing situation that is constant and inescapable. The term `{{H2956}}` gives this image its sense of an ongoing, non-stop process [[Proverbs 27:15]].
* **Wisdom Through Imagery:** The function of `{{H2956}}` is primarily didactic. By painting a picture of a relentless drip, the scripture provides a memorable lesson on the negative impact of contention and the value of peace and wisdom in personal relationships.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2956}}` **ṭârad**, while rare, plays a significant role in biblical wisdom literature. Its meaning of **continual** is applied figuratively to create a potent and enduring image of a persistent annoyance, like a dripping leak. Through its use in the book of Proverbs, the word serves not to define a major theological doctrine, but to impart practical wisdom about the wearing nature of domestic contention and the importance of household harmony.
TRV