a primitive root meaning properly, to burn, i.e. (by implication); to be rabid (figuratively, insane); also (from the exhaustion of frenzy) to languish; faint, mad.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **lâhahh**, represented by `{{H3856}}`, is a primitive root with a core meaning of **to burn**. This concept extends figuratively to describe intense states of being. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses**, where it is used to mean being rabid or insane, or to languish and faint from exhaustion.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H3856}}` illustrates two distinct conditions of extreme distress. It describes a state of collective physical collapse, as when the land of Egypt and Canaan **fainted** under the pressure of a great famine [[Genesis 47:13]]. It is also used to characterize dangerous and irrational behavior, as in the depiction of a **mad** man who recklessly casts about destructive weapons [[Proverbs 26:18]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to define the conditions that lead to the states described by `{{H3856}}`:
* `{{H7458}}` **râʻâb** (hunger; dearth, famine): This term identifies the direct cause of the land "fainting" in [[Genesis 47:13]]. It is a state of widespread lack that leads to utter exhaustion.
* `{{H3515}}` **kâbêd** (heavy; severe, difficult): This word describes the intensity of the famine in [[Genesis 47:13]] as **sore**, highlighting the unbearable weight that causes the land to languish.
* `{{H3384}}` **yârâh** (to lay or throw; to shoot): This word describes the action of the **mad** man who **casteth** firebrands and arrows, linking the state of madness in [[Proverbs 26:18]] directly to destructive acts.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3856}}` lies in its vivid portrayal of the consequences of extremity.
* **Societal Collapse:** The use of the word in the context of famine shows how physical deprivation can lead to a complete breakdown of a nation, where the land itself is personified as fainting and losing its vitality [[Genesis 47:13]].
* **Figurative Madness:** The word serves as a powerful metaphor for reckless, senseless behavior. By comparing a person who acts without consideration to a **mad** man, scripture warns against the destructive potential of uncontrolled actions and words [[Proverbs 26:18]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3856}}` is a potent and specific term that, while rare, carries significant descriptive power. It captures the dual ideas of "burning out" from exhaustion and "burning" with a destructive frenzy. It illustrates the Bible's understanding of how extreme pressures, whether physical or psychological, can push individuals and entire societies to a breaking point of either collapse or dangerous irrationality.
TRV