### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **yatsaʻ**, represented by `{{H3331}}`, is a primitive root meaning to **strew as a surface**, **make (one's) bed**, or to **lie** or **spread**. It is a rare term, appearing only **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible. Its meaning is consistently tied to the act of spreading something out, whether it be a bed for rest, a covering for mourning, or a figurative resting place in death.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H3331}}` describes both a literal and a metaphorical action. It is used to describe the posture of deep mourning, where many would **lay** in sackcloth and ashes [[Esther 4:3]] or **spread** sackcloth under themselves as part of a fast [[Isaiah 58:5]]. The word also carries a more somber, figurative meaning. In the grave, the worm is said to be **spread** under the deceased as a grim kind of bedding [[Isaiah 14:11]]. In a declaration of God's omnipresence, the psalmist states that even if he were to **make his bed** in hell (the grave), God would be there [[Psalms 139:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which `{{H3331}}` is used:
* `{{H5266}}` **nâçaq** (to go up; ascend): This word provides a direct contrast to making one's bed in the depths. In [[Psalms 139:8]], the psalmist pairs the idea of ascending to heaven with making his bed `{{H3331}}` in hell, highlighting the totality of God's presence.
* `{{H3381}}` **yârad** (to descend): This term reinforces the theme of being brought low. Pomp is **brought down** `{{H3381}}` to the grave, where the worm is then spread `{{H3331}}` as a final covering [[Isaiah 14:11]].
* `{{H6685}}` **tsôwm** (a fast): This word is directly linked to the use of `{{H3331}}` as an act of contrition. Spreading sackcloth is an outward sign accompanying a **fast** to afflict one's soul [[Isaiah 58:5]], and it is an action taken during a time of great mourning and **fasting** [[Esther 4:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3331}}` is found in its powerful symbolic applications.
* **Posture of Mourning and Humility:** The act of spreading `{{H3331}}` or lying on sackcloth and ashes is a physical expression of deep repentance, sorrow, and humbling oneself before God. It is associated with fasting `{{H6685}}` and weeping `{{H1065}}` as the Jews did in response to the king's decree [[Esther 4:3]].
* **The Grave as a Bed:** The word is used to frame the grave as a final, macabre resting place. Instead of a comfortable bed, the deceased is met with a covering of worms **spread** `{{H3331}}` underneath them [[Isaiah 14:11]], a powerful image of mortality and judgment.
* **Divine Omnipresence:** The act of making one's bed `{{H3331}}` in hell (Sheol) is used in [[Psalms 139:8]] to make a profound statement about God's sovereignty. No place, not even the depths of the grave, is beyond God's reach or presence.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3331}}` is a specific verb whose few occurrences carry significant weight. While its base meaning is simple—to spread out a surface or make a bed—it is used biblically to illustrate profound spiritual realities. It visualizes the physical depths of human sorrow and repentance, the stark finality of the grave, and the absolute, inescapable presence of God that extends even to the lowest places.
TRV