### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **yâqôsh**, represented by `{{H3369}}`, is a primitive root that means **to ensnare**, either literally or figuratively. It is also used to describe the actions of a fowler who lays a snare. According to usage statistics, it appears **8 times** across **8 unique verses** in the Bible, highlighting its specific application in contexts of trapping and entanglement.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{H3369}}` describes various forms of ensnaring. In a literal sense, it refers to the act of a fowler setting a trap, from which a soul can escape like a bird [[Psalms 124:7]]. Figuratively, it illustrates divine judgment, as when God declares, "I have laid a snare for thee, and thou art also taken, O Babylon" [[Jeremiah 50:24]]. The term also serves as a warning against spiritual and moral dangers, such as being **snared** by the temptation of gold and silver from graven images [[Deuteronomy 7:25]] or being **snared** by the words of one's own mouth [[Proverbs 6:2]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to form a broader picture of capturing and trapping:
* `{{H4170}}` **môwqêsh** (a noose... gin, ...snare): This noun often represents the trap itself. It can be a snare brought by the fear of man [[Proverbs 29:25]] or the result of serving other gods [[Deuteronomy 7:16]].
* `{{H6341}}` **pach** (a spring net... snare): This term for a trap is used in parallel with the work of fowlers and is described as being broken to allow for escape [[Psalms 124:7]].
* `{{H3920}}` **lâkad** (to catch... capture): This verb is frequently paired with `{{H3369}}` to describe the result of being snared. Those who are **snared** are also **taken** ([[Isaiah 8:15]], [[Isaiah 28:13]]).
* `{{H270}}` **ʼâchaz** (to seize... catch, lay, take hold): This verb describes the action of being caught or taken, as birds are **caught** in a snare [[Ecclesiastes 9:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3369}}` is significant, often illustrating the consequences of human action and divine will.
* **Consequence of Sin:** The word is used to describe the outcome of disobedience and pride. The disobedient are **snared** and broken [[Isaiah 28:13]], and one can even be **snared** by their own words [[Proverbs 6:2]].
* **Instrument of Divine Judgment:** God Himself uses the concept of a snare to execute judgment against nations like Babylon, which becomes **snared** and taken without awareness [[Jeremiah 50:24]].
* **Sudden Calamity:** `{{H3369}}` emphasizes the unexpected nature of downfall. Humans are **snared** in an evil time when it falls suddenly upon them, just as fish are taken in a net [[Ecclesiastes 9:12]].
* **Source of Temptation:** The allure of idols and their precious metals is described as a potential trap, wherein one could be **snared** [[Deuteronomy 7:25]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3369}}` **yâqôsh** is a potent verb that conveys the idea of being trapped or ensnared. While it has a literal application related to fowlers and hunting, its primary power in scripture lies in its figurative use. It serves as a stark illustration of the dangers of temptation, the finality of divine judgment, and the sudden, often self-inflicted, consequences of straying from a righteous path.
TRV