### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **yâgâh**, represented by `{{H3014}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to push away** or **be removed**. This term is highly specific, appearing only **1 time** in a single verse in the Bible. Its core idea revolves around the concept of physical displacement or the removal of an object from a place to clear a path.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{H3014}}` in scripture occurs in a narrative context where an obstruction is cleared. In [[2 Samuel 20:13]], a man's body is **removed** from a highway. This action was necessary so that "all the people" could continue their journey and pursue Sheba, the son of Bichri. The word, therefore, denotes a decisive action of removal that clears a path and allows for forward movement to resume.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{H3014}}` in [[2 Samuel 20:13]] is enriched by the surrounding words, which describe the setting, action, and purpose:
* `{{H4546}}` **mᵉçillâh** (a thoroughfare... highway): This word establishes the setting—a **highway** from which the man was removed. A highway can be a literal road or a figurative path, often one that needs to be kept clear for travel or for God's purposes [[Isaiah 62:10]].
* `{{H376}}` **ʼîysh** (a man as an individual): This word specifies who was able to proceed once the path was cleared—"all the **people**," referred to here as a group of individuals or men. The term is foundational, often used to distinguish man from God [[Numbers 23:19]] or to describe a person's character [[Psalms 1:1]].
* `{{H5674}}` **ʻâbar** (to cross over): This describes the result of the removal; the people were able to "go on" or pass by the location. This act of passing over is used widely to signify any kind of transition, from God passing by [[Exodus 34:6]] to calamities being overpast [[Isaiah 26:20]].
* `{{H7291}}` **râdaph** (to run after... pursue): This explains the motivation for the people's movement. They went on in order to **pursue** a target. The term often implies a hostile chase [[Jeremiah 20:11]], but can also describe a positive spiritual quest, such as pursuing peace [[Psalms 34:14]].
### Theological Significance
While appearing only once, the action described by `{{H3014}}` carries theological weight, particularly when viewed alongside its related concepts:
* **Clearing the Path:** The literal act of removing an obstacle from a **highway** `{{H4546}}` mirrors the spiritual principle of preparing the way for the Lord [[Isaiah 40:3]] or for His people [[Isaiah 62:10]]. The removal is a necessary prerequisite for progress.
* **Removing Spiritual Hindrances:** The obstacle on the highway prevented the people from moving forward. This parallels the need for the unrighteous **man** `{{H376}}` to forsake his sinful thoughts and ways to return to God [[Isaiah 55:7]]. The "highway of the upright is to depart from evil" [[Proverbs 16:17]], suggesting that holiness involves removing that which obstructs the path.
* **Enabling Divine Pursuit:** Once the way was cleared, the people could **pursue** `{{H7291}}` their objective. Theologically, removing sin and distractions allows believers to actively "seek peace, and **pursue** it" [[Psalms 34:14]] or to "follow on to know the LORD" [[Hosea 6:3]]. The removal is not an end in itself but enables a more important action.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3014}}` **yâgâh**, though rare, provides a potent illustration of a crucial principle. Its single appearance in scripture captures a moment where progress is impossible until an obstacle is physically **removed**. This specific, literal act serves as a powerful metaphor for the spiritual life, where clearing the path of moral and spiritual hindrances is essential to enable the faithful to "go on" and "pursue" the will of God. It shows how even a single word, in its unique context, can illuminate a deep theological truth about readiness and resolve.
TRV