### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼumlal**, represented by `{{H536}}`, denotes being **sick** or **weak**. It is a rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. This specific usage provides a focused and poignant depiction of human frailty in the face of suffering.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{H536}}` is in a cry of distress in Psalms. The psalmist pleads for God's mercy, stating, "Have mercy upon me, O LORD; for I am **weak**" [[Psalms 6:2]]. This declaration of weakness is the foundation for his appeal for divine intervention. The context is one of intense personal suffering, as he immediately follows this with a plea for healing, lamenting that his "bones are vexed." The word directly links a state of physical or emotional sickness to the need for God's direct action.
### Related Words & Concepts
The immediate context in [[Psalms 6:2]] connects **ʼumlal** with several other key terms that frame the experience of suffering and faith:
* `{{H2603}}` **chânan**: Defined as to **favor** or **bestow**, this word is used as a plea for God to "be merciful" or "have mercy," showing that the weak state of the psalmist is a reason for seeking divine favor.
* `{{H7495}}` **râphâʼ**: Meaning to **cure** or **heal**, this is the specific action the psalmist requests from the LORD in response to his weakness. It is the desired solution to the condition described by **ʼumlal**.
* `{{H926}}` **bâhal**: This word means to be **alarmed or agitated** and is translated as "vexed" in reference to the psalmist's bones. It illustrates that the weakness of `{{H536}}` is not a passive state but an active, troubling affliction.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H536}}`, while drawn from a single verse, is profound. It highlights the believer's response to affliction.
* **An Admission of Need:** The use of **ʼumlal** is an honest confession of helplessness. The psalmist does not rely on his own strength but acknowledges his weak state as the very reason he needs God.
* **The Basis for Supplication:** The declaration "I am **weak**" is not a cry of despair but a foundation for a prayer. It is immediately followed by a petition to the **LORD** `{{H3068}}` for mercy `{{H2603}}` and healing `{{H7495}}`.
* **Connecting Physical and Spiritual Reality:** The word is tied to a physical ailment where the psalmist's bones `{{H6106}}` are "vexed" `{{H926}}`. This demonstrates the biblical view that physical suffering is a profound spiritual experience that drives a person toward God.
### Summary
In summary, though used only once, `{{H536}}` **ʼumlal** provides a powerful and concise illustration of human frailty. Its appearance in [[Psalms 6:2]] captures the essence of a cry to God from a place of sickness and weakness. It defines a moment where personal strength ends and a complete reliance on the mercy and healing power of the **LORD** begins, making it a key expression of dependence on God in times of trouble.
TRV