from an unused root meaning to wipe away; sweeping; Suach, an Israelite; Suah.
Transliteration:Çûwach
Pronunciation:soo'-akh
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma `{{H5477}}` *Çûwach* (סוּחַ) is identified as a proper noun, a personal name. Its base definition is derived from an unused root, which conveys the meaning "to wipe away" or "sweeping." This suggests a core semantic range related to the concepts of removal, cleansing, or thorough obliteration. As a name, its primary function is identification, but the underlying etymology imbues it with potential symbolic resonance. The act of "wiping away" implies a complete removal, whether of dirt, tears, or something more abstract like sin or sorrow. "Sweeping" suggests a comprehensive action, leaving nothing behind. Thus, the name carries connotations of thoroughness and purification.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name *Çûwach* (Suach) appears only once in the Hebrew Scriptures:
* **[[1 Chronicles 7:36]]**: "The sons of Zophah: Suah, Harnepher, Shual, Beri, Imrah,"
In this sole occurrence, Suach is listed as one of the sons of Zophah, a descendant of Asher, within a detailed genealogical record of the tribes of Israel. The context is purely descriptive, serving to enumerate the lineage of individuals. There is no narrative associated with Suach himself, nor are any actions or events attributed to him. His mention is part of the meticulous preservation of tribal records, emphasizing the continuity and identity of the Israelite families. The meaning of his name, while intriguing, does not appear to directly influence or be explained by the immediate biblical context, which is strictly genealogical.
### Related Words & Concepts
While the specific root for `{{H5477}}` is noted as "unused" in other forms, the *concept* of "wiping away" or "sweeping" is profoundly significant throughout biblical theology. This concept is often expressed through various Hebrew and Greek terms, particularly in relation to divine action.
* The Hebrew verb `{{H4229}}` *machah* (מָחָה), meaning "to blot out" or "wipe away," is frequently used to describe God's action in removing sin ([[Isaiah 44:22]]), tears ([[Isaiah 25:8]]), or even people from the book of life ([[Exodus 32:32-33]]). This term carries a similar sense of complete obliteration or removal.
* The concept of cleansing and purification is central to the sacrificial system and the Law, employing terms like `{{H3722}}` *kaphar* (כָּפַר, to atone, purge) and `{{H2891}}` *tahar* (טָהַר, to be clean, purify). While not etymologically linked to *Çûwach*, they share the thematic domain of removal of impurity.
* In the New Testament, the Greek verb `{{G1813}}` *exaleiphō* (ἐξαλείφω), meaning "to wipe out, erase, blot out," is used similarly to describe God wiping away tears ([[Revelation 7:17]], [[Revelation 21:4]]) and blotting out sins ([[Acts 3:19]]).
The meaning embedded in the name Suach thus resonates with broader biblical themes of divine cleansing, forgiveness, and the ultimate removal of sorrow and death.
### Theological Significance
As a proper noun, the direct theological significance of *Çûwach* (Suach) is primarily derived from the meaning of the name itself. The name "Suach," meaning "sweeping" or "wiped away," can be interpreted in several reverent ways within a theological framework:
1. **Divine Cleansing and Forgiveness:** The most prominent theological implication relates to God's capacity to "wipe away" sin. Just as a surface is swept clean, God is portrayed as one who thoroughly removes transgression, offering complete forgiveness and purification. This resonates with prophecies of a new covenant where sins are remembered no more.
2. **Divine Comfort and Restoration:** The concept of "wiping away tears" is a powerful biblical image of God's compassionate care for His people, promising an end to suffering and sorrow in the eschatological future. The name Suach subtly echoes this promise of ultimate solace and restoration.
3. **Thoroughness of Divine Action:** Whether in judgment or salvation, God's actions are often depicted as complete and comprehensive. "Sweeping" implies a thoroughness that leaves nothing behind, reflecting God's absolute power and efficacy in His dealings with humanity and creation.
While Suach is merely a name in a genealogical list, its etymological root points to profound aspects of God's character and redemptive work – His power to cleanse, to forgive, and to bring about a complete restoration by wiping away all that mars His creation.
### Summary
`{{H5477}}` *Çûwach* is a unique Hebrew proper noun, meaning "sweeping" or "wiped away," derived from an unused root. It appears only once in the biblical text, in [[1 Chronicles 7:36]], identifying an individual within the lineage of the tribe of Asher. Despite its singular occurrence and lack of narrative context, the etymological meaning of the name carries significant theological resonance. It connects to broader biblical themes of divine cleansing, forgiveness, and the comprehensive removal of sin, sorrow, and death, as seen in the actions of God described by related terms like `{{H4229}}` *machah* and `{{G1813}}` *exaleiphō*. Thus, while a simple name, "Suach" subtly points to the thoroughness and redemptive power of the Almighty, who cleanses and brings ultimate comfort.
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