or לַהֶבֶת; feminine of לַהַב, and meaning the same; {a flash; figuratively, a sharply polished blade or point of aweapon}; flame(-ming), head (of a spear).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **lehâbâh**, represented by `{{H3852}}`, is a term for **flame** or a flash of fire. It appears 19 times across 19 unique verses in the Bible. While primarily referring to a literal flame, it is also used figuratively to describe the sharply polished point or **head** of a weapon.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H3852}}` is frequently used to depict divine power, both for judgment and protection. As an instrument of judgment, it is described as a **flame** that devours the wicked [[Psalms 106:18]] and consumes cities like a fire out of Heshbon [[Numbers 21:28]]. It also symbolizes God's protective presence, as when the LORD `{{H3068}}` creates a "flaming `{{H3852}}` fire `{{H784}}` by night" over Zion [[Isaiah 4:5]]. In a distinct literal sense, it refers to the **head** of Goliath's spear, highlighting its sharp, flashing quality [[1 Samuel 17:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for the meaning of **lehâbâh**:
* `{{H784}}` **'êsh** (fire): This is the most common word paired with `{{H3852}}`, often used interchangeably or together to intensify the description of divine power, as in "the flames `{{H3852}}` of fire `{{H784}}`" [[Psalms 29:7]].
* `{{H1197}}` **bâʻar** (burn): This verb frequently describes the action of a flame, signifying consumption. It is used to describe how the **flame** of the LORD's anger "burned `{{H1197}}` against Jacob" [[Lamentations 2:3]].
* `{{H7179}}` **qash** (stubble): This word often represents that which is easily consumed by a **flame**, symbolizing the fate of God's enemies. The house of Esau is described as becoming **stubble** before the house of Joseph, a **flame** [[Obadiah 1:18]].
* `{{H2595}}` **chănîyth** (spear): This term is directly related to the secondary meaning of `{{H3852}}`. The word **lehâbâh** is used to describe the **head** of a **spear** [[1 Samuel 17:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H3852}}` is demonstrated through its powerful imagery:
* **Divine Judgment:** The **flame** is a potent symbol of God's consuming wrath against wickedness and rebellion. It burns up the wicked [[Psalms 106:18]], devours the enemies of Israel like stubble [[Obadiah 1:18]], and executes judgment on those who reject the law of the LORD [[Isaiah 5:24]].
* **God's Holy Presence:** In contrast to judgment, the **flame** also represents the glorious and protective presence of God. The LORD manifests as a "shining `{{H5051}}` of a flaming `{{H3852}}` fire `{{H784}}`" over Mount Zion, providing a defense [[Isaiah 4:5]].
* **Instrument of Trial and Purification:** The word appears in contexts of severe trial. The wise among the people will "fall `{{H3782}}` by the sword `{{H2719}}`, and by flame `{{H3852}}`," suggesting a period of intense testing [[Daniel 11:33]].
* **Promise of Deliverance:** God assures His people of protection even in the midst of fiery trials, promising that when they walk through the fire, "neither shall the flame `{{H3852}}` kindle `{{H1197}}` upon thee" [[Isaiah 43:2]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3852}}` **lehâbâh** is a dynamic word that conveys more than just the physical properties of fire. It serves as a powerful biblical metaphor for the dual nature of God's power—His unquenchable judgment against sin and His radiant, protective presence with His people. From the devouring **flame** of divine wrath to the polished **head** of a warrior's spear, it illustrates intensity, power, and flashing light.
TRV