The Hebrew word yâʻaz, represented by H3267, is a primitive root meaning to be bold or obstinate; fierce. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible, making its sole usage particularly significant for understanding its specific application. The term conveys a sense of intimidating and stubborn strength.
The single biblical use of H3267 is found in Isaiah's prophecy. In Isaiah 33:19, the word describes a fierce people whom God promises Israel will no longer see. This fierceness is directly associated with a foreign and intimidating presence, as the same people are characterized by a "deeper speech" H6012 and a "stammering tongue" H3932 that cannot be perceived or understood.
Several related words from its context illuminate the meaning of fierce:
- H5971 ʻam (a people): This word identifies the subject described as fierce. It refers to a congregated unit or nation, such as when God promises to hear "my people" who humble themselves and pray 2 Chronicles 7:14.
- H6012 ʻâmêq (deep): This term describes the speech of the fierce people as "deeper," implying it is strange or hard to understand. It is used similarly in Ezekiel 3:5 to refer to a people of a strange speech.
- H3932 lâʻag (to deride; stammering): This word characterizes the tongue of the fierce people. While translated "stammering" in this context, it can also mean to mock or have in derision, as when enemies laughed us to scorn Nehemiah 2:19.
- H7200 râʼâh (to see): The promise in Isaiah 33:19 is that "Thou shalt not see" this fierce people, signifying a complete removal of the threat from their sight. This contrasts with how man seeth the outward appearance, while the LORD looks on the heart 1 Samuel 16:7.
The theological weight of H3267 is derived entirely from its single, pointed usage.
- Divine Protection: The primary theological contribution of H3267 is to characterize an oppressive force from which God promises deliverance. The declaration "Thou shalt not see a fierce people" is a promise of security and the removal of a hostile national threat Isaiah 33:19.
- Foreign Opposition: The word helps define an antagonistic people who are not only fierce but also foreign and incomprehensible, marked by a "deeper speech" H6012 and a "stammering tongue" H3932. This highlights the alien and intimidating nature of the opposition that God will overcome for His people.
- Obstinacy of Enemies: Because the definition includes "obstinate," H3267 implies a stubborn and unyielding hostility. This fierce obstinacy is what makes God's promised intervention and deliverance so significant.
In summary, H3267 is a concise but potent word whose meaning is entirely shaped by its single appearance in Scripture. It defines the character of a hostile, foreign power as fierce and obstinate. Used in Isaiah 33:19, its meaning is amplified by the surrounding description of a people with an incomprehensible language, creating a vivid image of an intimidating threat. Ultimately, yâʻaz serves to magnify the theological promise of God's complete deliverance and protection over His people.
TRV