### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **çâchaph**, represented by `{{H5502}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to scrape off; sweep (away)**. It is a rare term, appearing only **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Its usage consistently conveys a sense of complete and forceful removal, either through divine action or as a powerful natural metaphor for destruction.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H5502}}` is used to illustrate an overwhelming and irresistible force. In the book of Jeremiah, the word describes the fate of valiant men who are **swept away** because they could not stand when the LORD drove them [[Jeremiah 46:15]]. In Proverbs, it is used metaphorically to compare a poor man who oppresses other poor people to a **sweeping** rain that washes away all food, resulting in total devastation [[Proverbs 28:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are used in direct context with `{{H5502}}`, helping to clarify its meaning:
* `{{H1920}}` **hâdaph** (to push away or down; cast away (out), drive, expel, thrust (away)): This is the direct action that leads to the result of `{{H5502}}` in [[Jeremiah 46:15]], where the LORD's "driving" of the valiant men causes them to be "swept away."
* `{{H6231}}` **ʻâshaq** (to press upon, i.e. oppress, defraud, violate, overflow): This is the human action in [[Proverbs 28:3]] that is likened to a "sweeping" force, connecting social injustice to complete ruin.
* `{{H4306}}` **mâṭar** (rain): This word provides the imagery in [[Proverbs 28:3]], where the destructive power of a **sweeping** `{{H5502}}` **rain** `{{H4306}}` is used to describe the effect of oppression.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H5502}}` lies in its depiction of absolute power and consequence.
* **Divine Judgment:** The word is used to show the result of God's active judgment. The valiant men in [[Jeremiah 46:15]] are not merely defeated; they are **swept away** as a direct consequence of the LORD driving them, highlighting His sovereign power over human strength.
* **Destructive Force:** The metaphor in [[Proverbs 28:3]] frames oppression as a catastrophic event akin to a natural disaster. A **sweeping** rain that "leaveth no food" illustrates that such injustice is not just harmful but utterly ruinous, wiping out the very means of survival.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5502}}` **çâchaph**, though rare, provides a potent image of total removal. It is used to describe both the effect of God's direct judgment against the mighty [[Jeremiah 46:15]] and the ruinous consequences of human oppression, which is likened to a devastating natural force [[Proverbs 28:3]]. The word powerfully conveys an irresistible action that leaves nothing behind.
TRV