### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **çᵉchîy**, represented by `{{H5501}}`, means **refuse** or **offscouring**, referring to something that is swept off and discarded. This specific and powerful term appears only **1 time** in the entire Bible, highlighting a moment of profound degradation and worthlessness.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H5501}}` is found within a context of deep national lament. In [[Lamentations 3:45]], the prophet, speaking on behalf of the people, cries out to God, "Thou hast made us as the **offscouring** and refuse in the midst of the people." Here, the word describes a state of being made utterly worthless and contemptible in the eyes of other nations, as if they were nothing more than refuse to be swept away.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in its only context illuminate the meaning of `{{H5501}}`:
* `{{H3973}}` **mâʼôwç** (refuse): Used in direct parallel with **çᵉchîy** in [[Lamentations 3:45]], this word reinforces the idea of being discarded and rejected. The pairing of these terms creates a powerful image of complete and utter degradation.
* `{{H7760}}` **sûwm** (to put, make, appoint): This verb is crucial as it identifies the agent responsible for this condition. In [[Lamentations 3:45]], God is the one who has "made" the people into offscouring. This same verb is used elsewhere to describe God appointing beauty for ashes [[Isaiah 61:3]] or making a way in the wilderness [[Isaiah 43:19]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5501}}` is tied directly to its role in expressing the consequences of judgment.
* **A State of Divine Judgment:** The use of the verb "made" `{{H7760}}` explicitly attributes this condition of being an **offscouring** to divine action. It is not a random circumstance but a state appointed by God as a result of the people's actions.
* **Expression of Extreme Debasement:** To be an **offscouring** is to be rendered valueless. The term captures the psychological and spiritual state of those under judgment, who feel they have been reduced to nothing more than refuse.
* **The Agency of God:** The associated verb `{{H7760}}` demonstrates God's sovereignty to both lower and raise up. Just as God can "make" a people into offscouring [[Lamentations 3:45]], He can also "get" them praise [[Zephaniah 3:19]] or "put" His spirit upon them [[Isaiah 59:21]], suggesting that this state of debasement is not necessarily final.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5501}}` is a rare but poignant word in the Hebrew lexicon. It provides a stark and visceral image of what it means to be cast off and regarded as worthless. Its singular appearance in [[Lamentations 3:45]], coupled with the verb "made" `{{H7760}}`, frames this condition as a severe consequence of divine judgment, powerfully illustrating the depths of despair experienced in the biblical laments.
TRV