### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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