### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼĕyâlûwth**, represented by `{{H360}}`, defines **strength**, power, and by implication, protection. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its singular appearance lends it significant weight in its specific context, highlighting a focused and potent meaning.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H360}}` is found in a moment of deep personal distress in [[Psalms 22:19]]. The psalmist cries out, "But be not thou far from me, O LORD: O my **strength**, haste thee to help me." In this verse, the word is not merely an adjective describing God but is used as a direct form of address. God Himself is being called upon as the embodiment of the psalmist's strength, the very source of power and protection needed for deliverance.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of this plea in [[Psalms 22:19]] is illuminated by the words surrounding it:
* `{{H3068}}` **Yᵉhôvâh**: Defined as the self-Existent or Eternal God, this is the proper name of the one being addressed. The psalmist invokes the covenant name of God, identifying this ultimate being as his personal **strength**.
* `{{H2363}}` **chûwsh**: This word means to hurry or make haste. Its presence underscores the urgency of the situation and the desperate need for God's power to be demonstrated quickly.
* `{{H5833}}` **ʻezrâh**: Meaning aid or help, this word specifies the purpose for which God's **strength** is being summoned. The plea is for active, supportive intervention.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H360}}` is concentrated in its single, poignant usage.
* **God as Personal Strength:** By addressing the LORD `{{H3068}}` as "O my **strength**" [[Psalms 22:19]], the psalmist moves beyond acknowledging God's power as an abstract attribute. Strength becomes a personal, relational title for God in a moment of crisis.
* **Strength Invoked in Weakness:** The word appears within a cry for urgent help `{{H5833}}`. This demonstrates that divine strength is not just a general characteristic of God but a resource to be called upon specifically when one is vulnerable and in need of immediate aid.
* **Protection as an Aspect of Strength:** The base definition of `{{H360}}` includes "protection." The context of the plea—asking God not to be far `{{H7368}}` and to make haste `{{H2363}}`—cements this idea. The strength being sought is a protective power that shields and delivers.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{H360}}` is one of the rarest words in the biblical lexicon, its impact is profound. Its solitary appearance in [[Psalms 22:19]] transforms it from a simple noun for "strength" into a deeply personal name for God. It encapsulates the theological truth that in times of greatest need, God is not just a possessor of strength but is, for the believer, the very substance of strength and protection itself.
TRV