### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **labbâh**, represented by `{{H3827}}`, translates to **flame**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, a fact that gives its singular usage profound importance. The term is a specific form of another word for flame, *lehábáh*, and in its biblical context, it denotes a visual and supernatural manifestation of fire.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H3827}}` is in the pivotal narrative of Moses at the burning bush. The scripture states that "the angel of the LORD appeared unto him in a **flame** of fire out of the midst of a bush" [[Exodus 3:2]]. This is not an ordinary fire, but a divine theophany. The **flame** is the focal point of a miracle, as Moses observed that the bush `{{H5572}}` burned with fire `{{H784}}` but was not consumed `{{H398}}`, prompting him to investigate this great sight [[Exodus 3:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context help illuminate the meaning of this unique **flame**:
* `{{H784}}` **'êsh** (fire (literally or figuratively)): This word describes the general substance of the event, while `{{H3827}}` is the specific form—the **flame** itself. God’s word is also described as a **fire** [[Jeremiah 23:29]], and He guides His people in a pillar of **fire** [[Exodus 13:21]].
* `{{H5572}}` **çᵉneh** (a bramble; bush): This is the ordinary, natural object that hosts the extraordinary, supernatural **flame**. It is from the **midst** of this **bush** that God calls to Moses [[Exodus 3:4]].
* `{{H1197}}` **bâʻar** (to kindle, i.e. consume (by fire or by eating)): This verb describes what the bush appeared to be doing ("burned with fire"), creating a direct contrast with the fact that it was not consumed, highlighting the miraculous nature of the **flame** [[Exodus 3:2]].
* `{{H4397}}` **mălʼâk** (a messenger; specifically, of God, i.e. an angel): This word identifies the being within the **flame**. The **flame** is the vehicle for the **angel** of the LORD `{{H3068}}`, signifying that this is a divine appearance [[Exodus 3:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3827}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful appearance:
* **Divine Presence:** The **flame** is the visible manifestation of the "angel of the LORD" `{{H4397}}`, signifying God's holy presence engaging with the physical world in a way that can be seen `{{H7200}}` by humanity [[Exodus 3:2]].
* **Supernatural Power:** This **flame** burned `{{H1197}}` but did not consume `{{H398}}` the bush it inhabited [[Exodus 3:2]]. This demonstrates God’s absolute power over the laws of nature and represents a presence that is overwhelmingly powerful yet not destructive to that which it purifies or indwells.
* **A Divine Summons:** The miraculous sight of the **flame** is what captures Moses's attention, causing him to turn aside and witness the event [[Exodus 3:2-3]]. The **flame** serves as the divine signal that initiates God's call to Moses, setting in motion the events of the Exodus.
### Summary
In summary, **labbâh** `{{H3827}}` is far more than a simple word for **flame**. Though used only once, it represents a foundational moment in Israel's history. It symbolizes the meeting of the divine and the mundane, the manifestation of God's miraculous power, and the initiating sign of a holy calling. This single word captures a fire that does not destroy but instead reveals the very presence of God.
TRV