The Hebrew word lâʻaṭ, represented by H3938, is a primitive root that means to swallow greedily or, causatively, to feed. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible, making its specific context particularly instructive.
The single use of H3938 is found in the narrative of Esau and Jacob. In a moment of physical exhaustion, Esau says to Jacob, "Feed me, I pray thee, with that same red pottage; for I am faint" Genesis 25:30. The word captures the urgency and desperation of Esau's hunger, highlighting an impulsive desire to be fed driven by his weariness.
Several related words from this passage illuminate the context of this rare term:
- H6215 ʻÊsâv (Esau): The character who utters the demand. The dossier notes he was a "cunning hunter, a man of the field" Genesis 25:27, and this event is a defining moment for him.
- H559 ʼâmar (to say): The simple but crucial verb used for Esau's declaration. It is the vehicle for his urgent request: "And Esau said to Jacob..." Genesis 25:30.
- H5889 ʻâyêph (faint, thirsty, weary): This word provides the reason for Esau's desperate hunger. He cries out to be fed specifically "for I am faint" Genesis 25:30, linking his physical state directly to his demand.
The singular appearance of H3938 carries significant weight in its immediate context.
- Impulsive Appetite: The word is a powerful illustration of an action driven by immediate, physical need. The demand to "swallow greedily" is a direct result of being ʻâyêph, or faint Genesis 25:30.
- Defining Character Moment: This action is performed by ʻÊsâv H6215, whose identity as a "man of the field" Genesis 25:27 is contrasted with this moment of desperate need.
- The Power of Speech: The demand is initiated by the verb ʼâmar H559, showing how a spoken word, born from weariness, can set a significant event in motion.
In summary, while extremely rare, H3938 offers a vivid and potent definition through its sole biblical appearance. The term lâʻaṭ is not just about eating; it conveys a sense of swallowing greedily out of desperation. Its use in Genesis 25:30 encapsulates a critical moment of weakness and impulsive desire, forever linking the word to the story of Esau's profound hunger.
TRV