### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **çâkar**, represented by `{{H5534}}`, is a primitive root meaning to **shut up**, **stop**, or by implication, to **surrender** or **give over**. It appears 4 times across 4 unique verses in the Bible, and is used to describe definitive acts of cessation, closure, and submission under divine authority.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H5534}}` is used to illustrate God's power in several distinct contexts. It describes a literal act of control over nature, as when the fountains of the deep and the windows of heaven were **stopped** to end the great flood [[Genesis 8:2]]. Figuratively, it conveys the silencing of falsehood, where the mouth of those who speak lies is **stopped** as an act of divine justice [[Psalms 63:11]]. The word also signifies judgment, as when God declares He will **give over** the Egyptians into the hand of a cruel lord [[Isaiah 19:4]]. In a unique instance, it is used alongside a similar word to describe a person who is so **impoverished** they cannot make a proper offering [[Isaiah 40:20]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concepts of shutting up, surrendering, and divine authority:
* `{{H3607}}` **kâlâʼ** (to restrict, by act (hold back or in) or word (prohibit); finish, forbid, keep (back), refrain, restrain, retain, shut up, be stayed, withhold): This word is used in conjunction with çâkar to emphasize the cessation of the flood, where the rain from heaven was **restrained** [[Genesis 8:2]].
* `{{H6310}}` **peh** (the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech)): This term identifies what is being stopped in a context of judgment against deceit. God's action to shut up the **mouth** of liars is a direct response to their speech [[Psalms 63:11]].
* `{{H4428}}` **melek** (a king): This word appears in two contexts where çâkar is used. In one, the **king** rejoices in God while the mouths of liars are stopped [[Psalms 63:11]], and in another, a fierce **king** will rule over the Egyptians after God gives them over [[Isaiah 19:4]].
* `{{H5533}}` **çâkan** (to cut, i.e. damage; also to grow (causatively, make) poor; endanger, impoverish): This term appears with çâkar in the description of someone so **impoverished** they must choose a simple piece of wood for an idol, highlighting a state of material lack [[Isaiah 40:20]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5534}}` is demonstrated through its portrayal of God's absolute authority.
* **Sovereignty over Creation:** The word is used to show God's ultimate power over the natural world. By **stopping** the fountains of the deep and the windows of heaven, God demonstrates His ability to both initiate and cease world-altering events [[Genesis 8:2]].
* **Execution of Judgment:** The term is an expression of divine judgment. When God decides to **give over** the nation of Egypt to a cruel master, it is an act of surrender compelled by a higher authority as a form of punishment [[Isaiah 19:4]].
* **Vindication of Truth:** The act of **stopping** the mouths of liars is a theological promise of final justice. While the righteous king rejoices in God, those who speak lies are ultimately silenced, affirming God's defense of truth and righteousness [[Psalms 63:11]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5534}}` **çâkar** is a potent, though rare, term that conveys definitive divine action. It encompasses the power to literally **stop** the forces of nature, to **give over** a nation to judgment, and to silence falsehood. Its usage underscores a core biblical theme: God's sovereign control over both the physical world and the moral order, where He alone has the final say to shut up, restrain, and surrender according to His will.
TRV