### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **lᵉshad**, represented by `{{H3955}}`, is a term with meanings related to **juice**, **vigor**, **freshness**, and **moisture**. It can also refer to a **sweet or fat cake**. This word appears only **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Old Testament, suggesting a specific and focused application of its meaning.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical appearances, `{{H3955}}` is used both figuratively and literally. Figuratively, it describes a person's vital energy or **moisture**, which is "turned into the drought of summer" under the weight of God's hand [[Psalms 32:4]]. This usage equates the word with life force and vigor. In a more literal sense, it describes the taste of the manna that the Israelites gathered in the wilderness. After being ground and baked into cakes, it had a taste like that of **fresh** oil [[Numbers 11:8]], indicating a rich and pleasing quality.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context in which `{{H3955}}` is used:
* `{{H2015}}` **hâphak** (to turn about or over): This verb describes the transformation of the psalmist's **moisture** into drought, highlighting the loss of vitality [[Psalms 32:4]].
* `{{H2725}}` **chărâbôwn** (drought): This word stands in direct contrast to **lᵉshad**, representing the parching heat that results from the loss of moisture and vigor [[Psalms 32:4]].
* `{{H2940}}` **ṭaʻam** (a taste): This term is used to describe the perception of manna as being like **fresh** oil, connecting `{{H3955}}` to a sensory experience of richness [[Numbers 11:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological implications of `{{H3955}}` are drawn from its two distinct contexts:
* **Spiritual Vigor:** In Psalms, **moisture** is a metaphor for a person's vitality, which is depleted under God's heavy hand. This illustrates that a right relationship with God is connected to spiritual and physical well-being, and distance from Him can lead to a state of inner drought [[Psalms 32:4]].
* **Divine Provision:** In Numbers, the description of manna having the taste of **fresh** oil signifies the richness and quality of God's provision for His people. It shows that what God provides is not merely for subsistence but is good and satisfying [[Numbers 11:8]].
### Summary
In summary, **lᵉshad** `{{H3955}}` is a specific and potent word used to convey concepts of freshness and vitality. Though rare, its appearances are significant, illustrating both the richness of God's provision in the taste of manna and the depleting effect of God's heavy hand on a person's inner **moisture**. The word demonstrates how a physical quality can serve as a powerful metaphor for spiritual realities.
TRV