### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼôyêb**, represented by `{{H341}}`, defines an **adversary, enemy, or foe**. It appears 282 times across 275 unique verses in the Bible. As an active participle of a word meaning "to hate," it describes not just a passive opponent but one who is actively hating or hostile. This term is central to understanding conflict, deliverance, and divine judgment throughout Scripture.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H341}}` is used to describe a wide range of antagonists. It is foundational to God's covenant promises, such as when He assures Abraham that his seed will possess the gate of his **enemies** [[Genesis 22:17]]. The Psalms are filled with cries to God for deliverance from personal and national **enemies**, with the psalmist expressing confidence that God will ultimately make them a footstool [[Psalms 110:1]]. The term also carries a heavy theological warning: when Israel rebelled, God himself turned to be their **enemy** and fought against them [[Isaiah 63:10]]. This reveals that the most dangerous **enemy** can be a result of one's own disobedience to God.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller picture of the nature of opposition and hostility:
* `{{H6862}}` **tsar** (adversary, enemy, foe): Often used in parallel with `{{H341}}`, this word emphasizes the distress and trouble caused by an opponent. God is described as taking vengeance on His **adversaries** `{{H6862}}` and reserving wrath for His **enemies** `{{H341}}` [[Nahum 1:2]].
* `{{H8130}}` **sânêʼ** (to hate; enemy, foe, hater): This word points to the root emotion behind being an enemy. It is used to describe those who **hate** God, who are to be scattered along with his **enemies** `{{H341}}` [[Psalms 68:1]].
* `{{H6887}}` **tsârar** (adversary, distress, enemy): This term conveys the idea of being cramped or afflicted by a foe. It is used to describe the **enemies** `{{H6887}}` from whom God ordains strength in order to silence the **enemy** `{{H341}}` [[Psalms 8:2]].
* `{{H5358}}` **nâqam** (avenge, punish, revenge): This word describes the action taken against an enemy. It appears alongside `{{H341}}` to describe the "enemy and the **avenger**," both of whom God will still [[Psalms 8:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H341}}` is significant, framing the relationship between God, his people, and the forces of opposition.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** God is consistently portrayed as sovereign over all **enemies**. He promises to cause them to be smitten [[Deuteronomy 28:7]], cast them out [[Zephaniah 3:15]], and even make them be at peace with His people when their ways are pleasing to Him [[Proverbs 16:7]].
* **A Test of Faith:** The presence of **enemies** often serves as a catalyst for faith and reliance on God. David asks not to be ashamed before his **enemies** [[Psalms 25:2]], and Ezra is ashamed to ask a human king for help against the **enemy** because he had professed faith in God's protection [[Ezra 8:22]].
* **Ultimate Deliverance:** Scripture promises a final and complete victory over every **enemy**. The hope is that when one falls, the LORD will be a light, allowing them to arise again [[Micah 7:8]]. God's salvation is the ultimate triumph over all opposition [[1 Samuel 2:1]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H341}}` is more than just a label for a military or personal foe. It is a deeply theological concept that explores the nature of active hostility, the consequences of sin, and the believer's absolute dependence on God for protection, deliverance, and ultimate victory. The term illustrates that while **enemies** may arise from one's own house or from powerful nations, God's power is supreme to save those who trust in Him.
TRV