### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **lachats**, represented by `{{H3906}}`, is a term for **distress; affliction, oppression**. Derived from the root word for "to press," `{{H3905}}`, it appears **12 times** across **10 unique verses** in the Bible. This word vividly conveys a sense of being squeezed or burdened, whether by a foreign power, an enemy, or difficult circumstances.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H3906}}` is frequently used to describe the suffering of Israel. God acknowledges the **oppression** of His people by the Egyptians, a sight which prompts their deliverance [[Exodus 3:9]]. This theme reappears when God sees the **oppression** of Israel by the king of Syria [[2 Kings 13:4]]. The word also portrays profound personal anguish, as the psalmist cries out, "why go I mourning because of the **oppression** of the enemy?" ([[Psalms 42:9]], [[Psalms 43:2]]). In a striking metaphor, it is used to describe a meager and punishing diet of "bread of **affliction** and with water of **affliction**" [[1 Kings 22:27]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the scope of suffering associated with `{{H3906}}`:
* `{{H3905}}` **lâchats** (to press, i.e. (figuratively) to distress; afflict, crush, force, hold fast, oppress(-or), thrust self): This is the root verb from which the noun is formed. The two are used together to emphasize the action and its result, as seen when God observes "the **oppression** `{{H3906}}` wherewith the Egyptians **oppress** `{{H3905}}` them" [[Exodus 3:9]].
* `{{H6040}}` **ʻŏnîy** (depression, i.e. misery; afflicted(-ion), trouble): This term is often used in parallel with **lachats** to paint a fuller picture of suffering, such as when Israel cried out to God, who looked on their **affliction** `{{H6040}}` and their **oppression** `{{H3906}}` [[Deuteronomy 26:7]].
* `{{H6818}}` **tsaʻăqâh** (a shriek; cry(-ing)): This word represents the audible response to **lachats**. The **cry** `{{H6818}}` of the children of Israel, brought on by their **oppression** `{{H3906}}`, is what comes before God [[Exodus 3:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3906}}` is significant, highlighting God's relationship with the suffering.
* **A Catalyst for Divine Intervention:** The sight of **oppression** is consistently presented as a trigger for God's action. He sees the **oppression** of Israel in Egypt and under the Syrians and acts to deliver them ([[Exodus 3:9]], [[2 Kings 13:4]]).
* **A Basis for Lament:** The feeling of **oppression** forms the basis of heartfelt pleas to God, questioning His perceived absence and forgetfulness in times of trouble ([[Psalms 43:2]], [[Psalms 44:24]]).
* **A Means of Revelation:** In some contexts, **oppression** becomes the very circumstance in which God communicates. The Lord may give "the water of **affliction**" [[Isaiah 30:20]], and Elihu states that God "openeth their ears in **oppression**" [[Job 36:15]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3906}}` is far more than a simple word for trouble. It captures the painful pressure of being crushed, whether as a nation under a tyrannical regime or as an individual soul in deep distress. It serves a crucial role in scripture, acting as the impetus for Israel's cries, the focus of God's attention, and the motivation for His ultimate deliverance.
TRV