### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Çôwʼ**, represented by `{{H5471}}`, is a name of foreign derivation that identifies **So, an Egyptian king**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, marking a specific figure in a pivotal moment of Israel's history.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{H5471}}` is in the account of Hoshea, the last king of Israel. The king of Assyria discovered a **conspiracy** in Hoshea, who had **sent messengers** to **So** king of Egypt while failing to bring the required annual present to Assyria. This act of seeking an alliance with Egypt was viewed as treason, and as a direct result, the king of Assyria had Hoshea shut up and bound in prison [[2 Kings 17:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from this account clarify the context of this political event:
* `{{H4428}}` **melek** (a king): This title is applied to **So**, identifying him as a monarch. The term is used throughout scripture to denote both human rulers and God Himself, who is called the **King** of Israel [[Isaiah 44:6]].
* `{{H4714}}` **Mitsrayim** (Egypt, Egyptians, Mizraim): This identifies the nation ruled by **So**. Egypt features prominently in Israel's history as the land from which the LORD brought His people up [[Deuteronomy 20:1]].
* `{{H7195}}` **qesher** (an (unlawful) alliance; confederacy, conspiracy, treason): This word describes Hoshea's action. It defines an unlawful alliance, such as the **conspiracy** Absalom formed against his father David [[2 Samuel 15:12]].
* `{{H7971}}` **shâlach** (to send away, for, or out): This describes how Hoshea communicated with **So**. The word is used for both human and divine action, as when God promises to **send** His word to accomplish His will [[Isaiah 55:11]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative significance of `{{H5471}}` is tied directly to the downfall of the kingdom of Israel.
* **A Catalyst for Judgment:** Hoshea's decision to send messengers to **So** is the specific act that triggers the final judgment from the king of Assyria, leading to Hoshea's imprisonment [[2 Kings 17:4]].
* **Failed Political Alliance:** The mention of **So** illustrates a moment of political desperation, where King Hoshea sought security in a foreign alliance with Egypt rather than honoring his obligations or trusting in God. This attempt is explicitly labeled a **conspiracy** `{{H7195}}`.
* **Foreign Entanglement:** As king of **Egypt** `{{H4714}}`, **So** represents the recurring theme of foreign powers influencing the fate of Israel. The nation's entanglement with these powers often led to negative consequences.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5471}}` is not a major theological term but a crucial historical marker. The name **Çôwʼ** pinpoints the specific Egyptian king involved in King Hoshea's fateful decision. His singular mention in scripture serves as the lynchpin in the narrative that explains the immediate cause for the capture of Israel's last king, highlighting the perilous consequences of forming a treacherous **conspiracy** `{{H7195}}` with foreign powers.
TRV