### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **çibbâh**, represented by `{{H5438}}`, means **cause** or a **(providential) turn (of affairs)**. It is an exceedingly rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its singular appearance marks a pivotal moment where divine purpose is explicitly stated as the reason for a major event.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H5438}}` is found in [[1 Kings 12:15]], where the king's refusal to listen to the people is explained. The scripture states, "for the **cause** was from the LORD." This event was not a random political failure but a deliberate, providential act by God `{{H3068}}`. The purpose of this divine **cause** was to "perform" `{{H6965}}` a "saying" `{{H1697}}` that the Lord had previously "spake" `{{H1696}}`, demonstrating that God was orchestrating the circumstances to fulfill His own declared word.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of `{{H5438}}` is illuminated by the words used alongside it in its only context:
* `{{H3068}}` **Yᵉhôvâh** (Jehovah, the Lord): This identifies the source of the "cause." The "turn of affairs" is not from human will or chance but originates from **the Lord** Himself, the self-Existent or Eternal God [[1 Kings 12:15]].
* `{{H1697}}` **dâbâr** (a word; a matter): This is what the "cause" serves to accomplish. God's providential action was initiated to bring His spoken **word** or "saying" to pass, showing that His declarations are active and purposeful [[1 Kings 12:15]].
* `{{H6965}}` **qûwm** (to rise, perform, establish): This describes the result of the "cause." The events were set in motion so that God's word would be performed or made to **stand**, confirming its certainty [[1 Kings 12:15]]. As stated elsewhere, what God has spoken, He will "make it good" [[Numbers 23:19]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H5438}}` is profound, despite its single use. It establishes a clear principle of God's work in the world.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The term demonstrates that God is the ultimate **cause** behind historical events. He can orchestrate even the negative actions of a human king `{{H4428}}` to accomplish His divine plan, showing that His counsel will "stand" [[Proverbs 19:21]].
* **Fulfillment of God's Word:** The "cause" is directly tied to ensuring God's "saying" `{{H1697}}` is brought to pass. It underscores the biblical theme that God's spoken word is certain and will be performed `{{H6965}}`, as He is not a man that He should lie [[Numbers 23:19]].
* **Providential Action:** `{{H5438}}` defines a specific moment as a "providential turn of affairs," explicitly linking a human decision—the king not hearkening `{{H8085}}` to the people `{{H5971}}`—to the direct and purposeful will of God `{{H3068}}`.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5438}}` provides a powerful and concise theological statement in its single biblical appearance. While rare, the word **çibbâh** is not insignificant. It defines a critical event not as a political miscalculation but as a **cause** originating directly from the Lord `{{H3068}}`. It serves as a stark reminder of God's sovereignty, showing how He orchestrates history to ensure His spoken word is performed and His purposes are established.
TRV