a primitive root (probably rather the same as יָגָה through the common idea of dissatisfaction); to push away; be removed.
Transliteration:yâgâh
Pronunciation:yaw-gaw'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew root `{{H3014}}` *yâgâh* carries the primary meaning "to push away" or "to be removed." This definition points to an act of forceful separation or the state of being dislodged from a previous position. The Strong's definition notes a probable connection to `{{H3013}}` *yâgâh* (to grieve, cause grief) through a common underlying idea of "dissatisfaction." This connection is insightful, suggesting that the act of pushing away or being removed often stems from displeasure or results in a state of sorrow. While `{{H3013}}` emphasizes the emotional state of grief, `{{H3014}}` focuses on the physical or relational act of expulsion or the resultant state of alienation. The root implies a deliberate action, whether by an external agent or as a consequence, leading to a state of being cast off or distanced.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Occurrences of `{{H3014}}` in the Hebrew Bible are notably rare, making its singular clear instance in the Niphal stem particularly significant.
The most prominent and widely accepted occurrence of `{{H3014}}` in the sense of "to be removed" or "to be an object of loathing" is found in:
* [[Lamentations 1:8]]: "Jerusalem has grievously sinned; therefore she has become an object of loathing; all who honored her despise her, for they have seen her nakedness; she herself groans and turns away." (ESV) The verb here is *yaglah* (יָגְלָה), a Niphal perfect form of the root. The KJV translates it as "therefore she is removed." In this context, Jerusalem's egregious sin has led to her being "removed" or "cast off" in the sense of becoming an object of contempt and abandonment by those who once respected her. This removal is not merely physical exile, but a profound social and spiritual alienation, a direct consequence of her moral transgression. The passive voice (Niphal) underscores that Jerusalem is *acted upon*; her state is a result of divine judgment or the natural consequence of her actions.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most immediate and crucial related word is `{{H3013}}` *yâgâh*, which means "to grieve" or "to cause grief." While distinct in their primary definitions, the Strong's note highlights their shared conceptual space around "dissatisfaction." Being "pushed away" (`{{H3014}}`) can certainly "cause grief" (`{{H3013}}`), or be the result of divine "dissatisfaction."
Other related concepts include:
* **Separation and Exile:** Words like `{{H1540}}` *galah* (to go into exile, deport) and `{{H5080}}` *nadah* (to push away, cast out) share the theme of removal from a place or status.
* **Rejection and Displeasure:** Terms such as `{{H3988}}` *ma'as* (to reject, despise) resonate with the idea of being "pushed away" due to disapproval or contempt, as seen in the context of [[Lamentations 1:8]].
* **Consequence:** The word implies a cause-and-effect relationship, where an action (sin) leads to a state (being removed/loathed).
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H3014}}` is powerfully demonstrated in its singular clear biblical occurrence within [[Lamentations 1:8]]. Here, the verb underscores the severe consequences of sin, particularly for a people in covenant with God.
1. **Divine Judgment and Consequences of Sin:** The "removal" or "loathing" of Jerusalem is presented as a direct result of her "grievous sin." This highlights God's justice and holiness, demonstrating that covenant unfaithfulness leads to a state of alienation and loss of divine favor. It is a stark reminder that sin has tangible, often devastating, repercussions.
2. **Alienation and Desolation:** The state of being "removed" signifies more than just physical displacement; it speaks to a profound spiritual and relational alienation. Jerusalem, once the beloved city, becomes an object of scorn, stripped of her honor and dignity. This illustrates the desolating effect of sin on a community's identity and standing before God and nations.
3. **Sovereignty of God:** While the verb is Niphal (passive), the overarching narrative of Lamentations implies divine agency. It is God who allows or orchestrates this "removal" as a just response to His people's rebellion. This reinforces the concept of God's sovereign control over historical events and His unwavering commitment to righteousness.
### Summary
The Hebrew root `{{H3014}}` *yâgâh* denotes the act of being "pushed away" or "removed," often stemming from dissatisfaction or leading to a state of alienation. Though exceedingly rare in its distinct usage, its appearance in [[Lamentations 1:8]] is profoundly significant. In this context, it vividly portrays Jerusalem's state of being "removed" or "loathed" as a direct, severe consequence of her sin. The word thus serves as a powerful theological marker for divine judgment, highlighting the profound alienation and desolation that result from unfaithfulness to God. Its conceptual link to `{{H3013}}` *yâgâh* (to grieve) further underscores the sorrow and pain associated with such a state of being cast off.
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