### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **lâchats**, represented by `{{H3905}}`, is a primitive root that properly means **to press**. It appears 19 times across 18 unique verses in the Bible. Figuratively, its meaning extends to distress, afflict, crush, force, hold fast, and oppress. This term is used to describe both literal physical pressure and the metaphorical weight of persecution and affliction.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H3905}}` describes various forms of pressure and force. It is most frequently used to characterize the suffering of Israel under its enemies, such as the Egyptians who **oppress** them [[Exodus 3:9]] or the king of Syria who **oppressed** them during the reign of Jehoahaz [[2 Kings 13:4]]. The term also carries a more literal, physical meaning, as when Balaam's ass **thrust** herself against a wall and **crushed** his foot [[Numbers 22:25]]. Additionally, it can signify forcible confinement or containment, seen when the Amorites **forced** the children of Dan into the mountains [[Judges 1:34]] and when Elisha commands the elders to **hold fast** a messenger at the door [[2 Kings 6:32]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of pressure and affliction:
* `{{H3906}}` **lachats** (distress; affliction, oppression): This is the noun form derived directly from `{{H3905}}`. It is often used in tandem with the verb, as in [[Exodus 3:9]], which speaks of "the oppression (**lachats**) wherewith the Egyptians oppress (**lâchats**) them."
* `{{H1766}}` **dâchaq** (to press, i.e. oppress; thrust, vex): This word appears alongside `{{H3905}}` to describe the dual hardships faced by the Israelites, who suffered from those that **oppressed** them and **vexed** them [[Judges 2:18]].
* `{{H3238}}` **yânâh** (to suppress, to maltreat; vex): In the Law, this term is used in a parallel prohibition with `{{H3905}}`, commanding the Israelites to "neither **vex** a stranger, nor **oppress** him" [[Exodus 22:21]].
* `{{H7602}}` **shâʼaph** (to inhale eagerly; figuratively, to cover; desire, devour, swallow up): This word connects the idea of oppression to a consuming action. The psalmist cries out to God against the man who "would **swallow me up**; he fighting daily **oppresseth** me" [[Psalms 56:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3905}}` is significant, highlighting God's relationship with the afflicted and His stance against injustice.
* **A Catalyst for Divine Action:** The act of oppression is repeatedly shown to provoke a divine response. When the Israelites cry out to the LORD "because of the oppressors (**lâchats**)," He sends them a savior to deliver them [[Isaiah 19:20]]. The LORD sees the oppression and hears the cry that results from it [[Exodus 3:9]].
* **An Object of Divine Judgment:** The Bible is clear that God will hold oppressors accountable. In [[Jeremiah 30:20]], God promises His restored people, "I will punish (**pâqad**) all that **oppress** them."
* **A Prohibited Act:** The Law explicitly forbids the Israelites from becoming oppressors themselves, reminding them of their own history of suffering. They are commanded not to **oppress** a stranger because they know the heart of a stranger from their time in Egypt [[Exodus 23:9]].
* **A Consequence of Disobedience:** In the book of Judges, oppression is often a direct consequence of Israel's turning away from God. The LORD delivers them from those that **oppressed** them only after they cry out to Him in repentance ([[Judges 2:18]], [[Judges 10:12]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3905}}` **lâchats** is a dynamic term that conveys a range of meanings from literal physical force to the severe affliction of a nation. It plays a crucial role in the biblical narrative, particularly in describing the suffering of Israel at the hands of its enemies. Theologically, the concept of oppression is a trigger for divine intervention, a subject of divine judgment, and a behavior strictly forbidden under God's law, reminding believers of God's constant vigilance over the afflicted.
TRV