### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **çâchâh**, represented by `{{H5500}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to sweep away; scrape**. It is a rare term, appearing just **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Its singular use provides a stark and powerful image of complete and utter desolation carried out as a divine judgment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H5500}}` is found in the prophecy against Tyrus. The LORD declares that after the city's walls are destroyed and its towers are broken down, "I will also **scrape** her dust from her, and make her like the top of a rock" [[Ezekiel 26:4]]. This action signifies the final stage of destruction, a thorough cleansing that removes every last remnant of the city, leaving behind nothing but a barren, exposed foundation. It illustrates an absolute and irreversible judgment.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words found in its immediate context help clarify the severity of this action:
* `{{H7843}}` **shâchath** (to decay, i.e. (causatively) ruin (literally or figuratively); batter, cast off, corrupt(-er, thing), destroy(-er, -uction), lose, mar, perish, spill, spoiler, [idiom] utterly, waste(-r)): This verb is used directly alongside `{{H5500}}` to describe how the walls of Tyrus will be **destroyed** [[Ezekiel 26:4]]. It often denotes a ruinous act of God, as seen in the destruction of all flesh during the flood [[Genesis 6:17]].
* `{{H2040}}` **hâraç** (a primitive root; to pull down or in pieces, break, destroy): This word describes the breaking down of Tyrus's towers [[Ezekiel 26:4]]. It is frequently used for the demolition of physical structures, such as when walls are **thrown down** [[Jeremiah 50:15]] or when foundations are **destroyed** [[Psalms 11:3]].
* `{{H5414}}` **nâthan** (a primitive root; to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)): In this context, God uses this verb to **make** Tyrus like a bare rock [[Ezekiel 26:4]], signifying a transformation into desolation. This contrasts with its more frequent use for acts of divine provision, such as when God promises to **give** a new heart [[Ezekiel 36:26]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5500}}` is centered on the nature of divine judgment.
* **Absolute Judgment:** The act of scraping away dust conveys a judgment that is final and absolute. It is not merely a punishment or a defeat but a complete eradication, leaving no possibility of rebuilding from the original remains [[Ezekiel 26:4]].
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The phrase "I will also scrape" firmly establishes this as a sovereign act of God. It demonstrates His ultimate power over nations and His capacity to execute judgment with meticulous and devastating thoroughness.
* **A Picture of Utter Ruin:** Paired with the destruction of walls `{{H7843}}` and towers `{{H2040}}`, the scraping action completes the picture of total ruin. It serves as a powerful scriptural illustration of what it means for something to be completely and utterly removed by God's decree.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5500}}` is a highly specific term whose single biblical instance delivers a profound message. While its basic meaning is to **scrape** or **sweep away**, its use in [[Ezekiel 26:4]] elevates it to a symbol of complete and final divine judgment. It demonstrates that God's power is not limited to defeating His enemies but extends to wiping away their very dust, transforming a proud city into nothing more than bare, desolate rock.
TRV