### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **çâbak**, represented by `{{H5440}}`, is a primitive root meaning to **entwine**, **fold together**, or **wrap**. It appears **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible. This word conveys the idea of things being tangled or intricately woven together, whether in a natural or metaphorical sense.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H5440}}` is used to illustrate both natural growth and divine judgment. In Job, it is used literally to describe how the roots `{{H8328}}` of a plant are **wrapped about** a heap `{{H1530}}`, showing a tenacious and secure hold [[Job 8:17]]. In Nahum, the word takes on a metaphorical meaning. The enemies of the Lord are described as **folden together** like thorns `{{H5518}}`, indicating a tangled, combustible state just before they are devoured `{{H398}}` like fully dry `{{H3002}}` stubble `{{H7179}}` [[Nahum 1:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide deeper context for the imagery of `{{H5440}}`:
* `{{H8328}}` **sheresh** (a root): This word, used in Job, signifies the foundation or source of life. When its **roots** are "wrapped about" something, it implies a deep and established connection [[Job 8:17]].
* `{{H5518}}` **çîyr** (thorn): In Nahum's prophecy, the wicked are "folden together" like **thorns**, emphasizing a painful, impassable, and hazardous entanglement that is ripe for judgment [[Nahum 1:10]].
* `{{H1530}}` **gal** (heap): This term describes the object around which the roots are entwined in [[Job 8:17]]. It can mean a **heap** of stone, highlighting the secure grip of the roots on a firm structure.
* `{{H7179}}` **qash** (stubble): This word is used in [[Nahum 1:10]] to describe the final state of those who are "folden together." As dry **stubble**, they are easily and completely devoured, showing their ultimate vulnerability.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5440}}` is seen in its dual imagery of security and judgment.
* **Tenacious Hold:** In its positive sense, as seen in Job, the word illustrates a persistent and life-sustaining connection. The roots `{{H8328}}` that **wrap** themselves around the heap `{{H1530}}` depict a secure foundation and unwavering stability [[Job 8:17]].
* **Entanglement for Judgment:** In contrast, the use in Nahum portrays a negative entanglement. People who are **folden together** in their wickedness, like thorns `{{H5518}}`, become a collective object of divine wrath, destined to be devoured `{{H398}}` together [[Nahum 1:10]].
* **Inescapable Condition:** Both uses convey a state of being intricately bound. Whether it represents the stability of a well-rooted plant or the shared fate of the wicked, `çâbak` suggests a condition from which it is not easy to be separated.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5440}}` **çâbak** provides a powerful and concise image of things being entwined or wrapped together. Though it appears only twice, its applications are profoundly different. It can depict the life-giving tenacity of roots `{{H8328}}` securing themselves to a foundation [[Job 8:17]], or it can illustrate the perilous entanglement of the wicked who are **folden together** for judgment [[Nahum 1:10]]. The word demonstrates how the concept of being bound together can signify either enduring stability or collective destruction.
TRV