### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **çâç**, represented by `{{H5580}}`, means **moth**. Its definition notes it is derived from a word related to agility, similar to a fly. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, where it is used to illustrate a process of slow but certain destruction.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{H5580}}` is found in [[Isaiah 51:8]], where it is rendered as **worm**. In this verse, its destructive action is set in a parallel structure: "For the moth{H6211} shall eat them up like a garment{H899}, and the **worm**{H5580} shall eat{H398} them like wool{H6785}". This imagery is employed to describe the ultimate fate of God's enemies, emphasizing that they will be consumed and perish. The verse contrasts their transient nature with the eternal permanence of God's righteousness and salvation.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context in [[Isaiah 51:8]] help clarify the meaning of `{{H5580}}`:
* `{{H6211}}` **ʻâsh** (moth): This word is used in direct parallel with `{{H5580}}`. It serves as a symbol of fragility and consumption, appearing in passages that describe how human life and works are easily destroyed ([[Job 4:19]], [[Psalms 39:11]]).
* `{{H398}}` **ʼâkal** (to eat): This is the action performed by the **worm** `{{H5580}}`. The verb is used throughout Scripture to describe both literal consumption of food and the figurative destruction or devouring of something [[Isaiah 50:9]].
* `{{H6785}}` **tsemer** (wool): This is the material consumed by `{{H5580}}`. Wool was a valuable commodity [[Proverbs 31:13]] and could also be a symbol of purity when cleansed [[Isaiah 1:18]], making its destruction by a seemingly insignificant creature a powerful image.
* `{{H899}}` **beged** (garment): As the object eaten by the moth in the parallel phrase, a garment represents things that are temporary and subject to decay, which "shall wax old" [[Isaiah 51:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5580}}` is derived entirely from its singular, powerful use in prophecy.
* **Symbol of Inevitable Decay:** The word illustrates a quiet, gradual, yet unstoppable force of decay that breaks down valuable materials. It signifies that which is earthly is subject to ruin.
* **Transience of Opposition:** In [[Isaiah 51:8]], the worm and moth are used to depict the fleeting nature of those who oppose God. Their strength and substance will ultimately be consumed and amount to nothing.
* **Contrast with Divine Permanence:** The primary theological function of this imagery is to create a stark contrast. While earthly things and adversaries are consumed like wool by a worm, God's righteousness and salvation are declared to be "for ever" and "from generation to generation" [[Isaiah 51:8]].
### Summary
In summary, despite its extreme rarity, `{{H5580}}` plays a significant role in its single biblical appearance. As **çâç**, or the consuming **worm**, it serves as a potent symbol of decay and destruction. Its function in [[Isaiah 51:8]] is to vividly illustrate the transient nature of God's enemies when compared to the absolute and eternal permanence of His salvation and righteousness.
TRV