The Hebrew word kîydôwd, represented by H3590, is a term meaning spark. The base definition suggests something "struck off," highlighting the forceful creation of the spark. This word is exceedingly rare, appearing only 1 time across 1 unique verse in the entire Bible.
The single use of H3590 occurs in the book of Job, within a description of a formidable and powerful creature. The verse states, "Out of his mouth H6310 go H1980 burning lamps H3940, and sparks H3590 of fire H784 leap out H4422" Job 41:19. Here, the word contributes to an image of immense, untamable power, where dangerous fire and light are emitted as a natural characteristic of the being.
Several related words from its context in Job 41:19 illuminate its meaning:
- H3940 lappîyd (lamp, torch): This word describes a source of light, like a flambeau or flame. It is used to describe the eyes of a divine being in a vision Daniel 10:6 and to symbolize salvation burning brightly Isaiah 62:1.
- H4422 mâlaṭ (to escape, leap out, deliver): This is the action associated with the sparks. While it describes the sparks emitting in Job, it more often signifies deliverance or rescue, such as when God promises to deliver his people from trouble (Jeremiah 39:18, Psalms 41:1).
- H784 ʼêsh (fire): This is the element of which the sparks are made. Fire is a frequent biblical symbol for the divine presence, judgment, and power, with God Himself being described as a "consuming fire" Deuteronomy 9:3 and His word being like fire Jeremiah 23:29.
The theological weight of H3590 is derived entirely from its powerful context.
- Imagery of Awesome Power: The word is used to build a picture of a creature whose might is overwhelming and beyond human control. The "sparks of fire" are a manifestation of this untamable nature, intended to display a power that only God could create and command.
- A Symbol of Dangerous Presence: Paired with "burning lamps" H3940 and "fire" H784, the sparks contribute to a theme where intense light and fire signify a formidable, unapproachable presence, echoing other biblical descriptions of divine or celestial beings.
- Uncontrollable Force: The sparks "leap out" H4422, suggesting a volatile and unrestrained force. This imagery in Job serves to humble the observer, emphasizing that there are elements of creation that are wild and subject only to their Creator.
In summary, while H3590 is a hapax legomenon (a word used only once), its singular appearance is impactful. It is not a simple word for a spark but a component in one of the Bible's most vivid portraits of awesome, uncontrollable power. Through its context and associated terms, kîydôwd helps illustrate the raw and fearsome aspects of a creation that points back to the omnipotence of God.
TRV