The Hebrew word yᵉçôwd, represented by H3247, serves as a core term for foundation. It appears 20 times across 20 unique verses. Derived from a root meaning to found or establish, H3247 is used literally for the base of a structure, figuratively for the basis of a person's life, and specifically to denote the bottom of the altar or the act of repairing.
In biblical usage, H3247 frequently appears in contexts of divine judgment, where the destruction of a city's foundations signifies total overthrow. The LORD is described as devouring the foundations of Zion in his anger Lamentations 4:11, and enemies cry to "Rase it, rase it, even to the foundation thereof" Psalms 137:7. Figuratively, it contrasts the fleeting nature of the wicked with the stability of the righteous, who are described as "an everlasting foundation" Proverbs 10:25. A distinct and critical use is found in Leviticus, where blood from sacrifices is repeatedly poured at the bottom of the altar to sanctify it and make reconciliation (Leviticus 8:15, Leviticus 4:7).
Several related words help clarify the meaning and context of H3247:
- H2040 hâraç (to pull down or in pieces, break, destroy): This word is often used to describe the action taken against a foundation. In prophecies of judgment, foundations H3247 are said to be "broken down" (hâraç) Ezekiel 30:4.
- H1540 gâlâh (to denude... to reveal... discover): This term describes the exposure of a foundation during its destruction. Judgment is complete when the foundation thereof "shall be discovered" (gâlâh) (Ezekiel 13:14, Micah 1:6).
- H1818 dâm (blood): This is central to the ritual use of H3247. In sacrificial law, the blood is poured at the "bottom" H3247 of the altar Exodus 29:12.
- H4196 mizbêach (an altar): The altar is the specific object whose "bottom" H3247 is referenced throughout the purification and atonement rituals in Leviticus Leviticus 9:9.
The theological weight of H3247 is demonstrated in its varied applications.
- Symbol of Total Judgment: The destruction of a city's foundations represents an irreversible and complete act of divine judgment, leaving nothing remaining (Ezekiel 13:14, Lamentations 4:11).
- Basis of Atonement: In the tabernacle rituals, the bottom of the altar is the place where the blood, the agent of atonement, is poured out. This makes it the foundational point of contact for sanctification and reconciliation Leviticus 8:15.
- Foundation of Righteousness: The word is used metaphorically to establish that a person's moral character is their true source of stability. While the wicked are swept away, the righteous have a foundation that is "everlasting" Proverbs 10:25.
In summary, H3247 conveys a concept far deeper than a simple architectural base. It represents the very core of a structure, a city, or a person's life. Whether it is being ritually consecrated with blood at the altar, torn down in an act of judgment, or established as the everlasting nature of the righteous, yᵉçôwd illustrates the profound biblical theme that what lies at the base determines ultimate stability or ruin.
TRV