### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **lâʼṭ**, represented by `{{H3814}}`, means **softly** or silently. Its definition is properly, muffled, i.e. silently. This term is exceptionally specific, appearing only **1 time** in a single verse in the entire Bible, making its context crucial to its meaning.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H3814}}` is in the dramatic account of Jael and Sisera. After Sisera fled to her tent, Jael "went **softly** unto him" while he was exhausted and in a deep sleep. The word describes her stealthy, silent movement as she approached the unsuspecting commander with a tent nail and a hammer before she smote the nail into his temples, killing him [[Judges 4:21]]. The quietness of the action stands in stark contrast to its violent and decisive outcome.
### Related Words & Concepts
The narrative surrounding this single use of `{{H3814}}` is enriched by several key words from the passage:
* `{{H3278}}` **Yâʻêl** (Jael): The name for the woman who performed this act. Jael is described as Heber's wife and is later called "Blessed above women" for her actions [[Judges 5:24]].
* `{{H7290}}` **râdam** (to be fast asleep): This word describes Sisera's deep state of unconsciousness, which made Jael's silent approach both possible and necessary. It means to stun or stupefy with sleep or death [[Judges 4:21]].
* `{{H3489}}` **yâthêd** (nail): This is the object Jael used, defined as a peg, nail, or stake. In this context, it is the "nail of the tent" that becomes the instrument of Sisera's demise [[Judges 4:21]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H3814}}` is tied entirely to its narrative function in the book of Judges.
* **Deliberate Action:** The word "softly" does not imply timidity but rather purposeful stealth. Jael's quiet approach was a calculated part of her plan to dispatch the enemy of Israel, an act carried out with a hammer `{{H4718}}` and a tent nail `{{H3489}}` taken in her hand `{{H3027}}`.
* **Executing Judgment:** Jael's act, characterized by this silent movement, is presented as a fulfillment of divine will. She is the unlikely instrument who brings about the death `{{H4191}}` of the powerful commander, Sisera.
* **Exploiting Vulnerability:** The effectiveness of moving "softly" `{{H3814}}` hinges on the target's vulnerability. Sisera was "fast asleep and weary" `(`{{H7290}}`, `{{H5774}}`)`, and the stealthy action underscores his complete helplessness before Jael's decisive blow.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3814}}` is a highly specific term whose entire biblical meaning is contained within a single, dramatic event. It is not a broad theological concept but a descriptive word that gives color and tension to the story of Jael's execution of Sisera. Its use in [[Judges 4:21]] vividly portrays the stealth and resolve required to carry out a deadly and pivotal act in Israel's history.
TRV