### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **çâʻiph**, represented by `{{H5587}}`, refers to a sentiment or **opinion**, often one that is divided. It appears **3 times** in **3 unique verses** in the Bible. The term abstractly signifies a sentiment or a mind that is divided, highlighting states of internal thought and indecision.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H5587}}` is used to describe internal states of mind. It famously appears when the prophet Elijah `{{H452}}` confronts the people for hesitating between two **opinions** regarding their allegiance to the LORD `{{H3068}}` or Baal `{{H1168}}` [[1 Kings 18:21]]. The word is also used in the book of Job to describe troubling **thoughts** that arise from night visions `{{H2384}}`, particularly when deep sleep `{{H8639}}` falls upon men `{{H582}}` [[Job 4:13]]. In another context, it refers to the inner **thoughts** that compel a person to speak and respond [[Job 20:2]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide further context to the meaning of sentiment and opinion:
* `{{H6452}}` **pâçach** (halt): This word, meaning to hop, hesitate, or limp, is used directly alongside `{{H5587}}` to describe the physical indecisiveness of the people who "halt" between two opinions [[1 Kings 18:21]]. It is also used for the Passover, where the LORD "passed over" the houses of the Israelites [[Exodus 12:23]].
* `{{H2384}}` **chizzâyôwn** (vision): This term for a revelation or vision is presented as a source for the "thoughts" described by `{{H5587}}`. The connection is made explicit in Job, where troubling thoughts arise from "visions of the night" [[Job 4:13]].
* `{{H7725}}` **shûwb** (answer): This word, often meaning to turn back or convert, is used in Job to indicate a response prompted by internal thoughts `{{H5587}}` [[Job 20:2]]. It connects the inner sentiment to an outward action or reply.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5587}}` lies in its focus on the internal state of belief and decision.
* **The Call for Undivided Allegiance:** The word's use in [[1 Kings 18:21]] frames spiritual indecision as a critical failure. Halting between two **opinions** is presented as an unacceptable state for the people of God `{{H430}}`, who are called to follow the LORD `{{H3068}}` without hesitation.
* **The Realm of Inner Thought:** In the book of Job, `{{H5587}}` points to the inner world of human sentiment. It describes **thoughts** that arise from "visions of the night" [[Job 4:13]], connecting the inner mind to spiritual or mysterious encounters that occur when deep sleep `{{H8639}}` falls on men `{{H582}}`.
* **Sentiment as a Catalyst for Action:** The term demonstrates that an internal **opinion** or thought is not passive. It can be the direct cause for a person to **answer** `{{H7725}}` and act with haste `{{H2363}}`, as seen in [[Job 20:2]], linking internal conviction to outward expression.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5587}}` moves beyond a simple definition of **opinion** to explore the profound implications of a divided mind. It is used to challenge spiritual indecisiveness, to describe the unsettling nature of thoughts that arise in the night, and to show how internal sentiment drives outward action. While appearing only three times, **çâʻiph** captures the critical importance of a committed and undivided mind in one's relationship with God.
TRV