or שָׂעִף; from סָעַף; divided (in mind), i.e. (abstractly) a sentiment; opinion.
Transliteration:çâʻiph
Pronunciation:saw-eef'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H5587}}`, *çâʻiph* (סָעִף), is derived from the root סָעַף (sa'aph), which carries the core meaning of "to divide," "to split," or "to branch off." This root often implies a state of being torn or fragmented. Consequently, `{{H5587}}` extends this physical sense of division into the psychological and spiritual realms, signifying a state of being "divided in mind." This denotes indecision, wavering, or internal conflict, rather than a firm and resolute conviction. The semantic range thus encompasses "opinion" or "sentiment," specifically referring to a view held by one who is uncertain or ambivalent, lacking singular focus or wholehearted commitment. It speaks to a lack of mental or spiritual integrity, where one's allegiance or belief is split between competing options.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{H5587}}` appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, but its singular occurrence is profoundly significant:
* **[[1 Kings 18:21]]**: "Elijah came near to all the people and said, 'How long will you waver between two opinions? If the LORD is God, follow him; but if Baal is God, follow him.' But the people did not answer him a word."
In this dramatic confrontation on Mount Carmel, Elijah challenges the people of Israel who are attempting to serve both Yahweh and Baal. The phrase "waver between two opinions" (עַל־שְׁתֵּי הַסְּעִפִּים, *‘al-shetê has-sə‘ippîm*) vividly captures their spiritual indecision and syncretism. The imagery evoked by `{{H5587}}` here is of someone limping or hopping between two branches, unable to commit fully to one path. It portrays a people whose minds and hearts are divided, unwilling to make an exclusive choice for the God of Israel. This context underscores the deep spiritual malaise of the nation, highlighting their failure to uphold the covenantal demand for undivided loyalty to Yahweh. The silence of the people in response further emphasizes their state of spiritual paralysis and internal division.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary linguistic connection for `{{H5587}}` is its verbal root, סָעַף (sa'aph), meaning "to divide" or "to branch off." This root reinforces the core idea of fragmentation and lack of unity.
Conceptually, `{{H5587}}` is closely related to:
* **Indecision and Wavering**: It describes a state of being unable to choose or commit, a spiritual vacillation.
* **Double-mindedness**: While `{{H5587}}` is a Hebrew term, its theological concept finds a strong parallel in the New Testament Greek term δίψυχος (dipsychos, `{{G1374}}`), meaning "double-minded," as seen in [[James 1:8]] ("a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways") and [[James 4:8]]. Both terms describe an internal division that hinders spiritual stability and integrity.
* **Syncretism and Hypocrisy**: The context of [[1 Kings 18:21]] directly links `{{H5587}}` to the attempt to blend the worship of Yahweh with that of Baal, exemplifying a form of spiritual hypocrisy where one outwardly professes allegiance while inwardly being divided.
* **Lack of Wholeheartedness**: It stands in stark contrast to concepts of wholehearted devotion (e.g., `{{H3824}}` *levav* often used to denote the heart as the seat of will and devotion) and singular commitment to God, which are frequently emphasized throughout the Scriptures (e.g., [[Deuteronomy 6:5]]).
### Theological Significance
The unique occurrence of `{{H5587}}` in [[1 Kings 18:21]] carries profound theological weight. It serves as a powerful indictment of spiritual ambivalence and highlights a fundamental demand of the biblical faith: exclusive devotion to God.
1. **Divine Demand for Exclusivity**: God, as revealed in the Old Testament, is a jealous God who demands undivided loyalty and worship. The First Commandment, "You shall have no other gods before me" ([[Exodus 20:3]]), directly opposes the `{{H5587}}` state of being. Elijah's challenge underscores that there is no middle ground in allegiance to the Creator; one cannot serve two masters.
2. **Consequence of Spiritual Indecision**: The `{{H5587}}` state renders a people spiritually impotent and unable to experience the full blessings of the covenant. Their wavering prevented them from responding to God's truth and experiencing His power, as evidenced by their silence and inability to call down fire.
3. **Call to Decision and Commitment**: Elijah's confrontational question is a divinely inspired call for a clear, unambiguous decision for Yahweh. It emphasizes that true faith requires a decisive and wholehearted commitment, rejecting any form of spiritual compromise or syncretism. This principle remains foundational for believers, urging them to abandon "double-mindedness" and fully commit to Christ.
4. **Idolatry as Division**: The specific context links `{{H5587}}` directly to the sin of idolatry. To be "divided in mind" between Yahweh and Baal is to engage in a profound betrayal of the covenant, demonstrating a lack of trust and love for the one true God.
### Summary
The Hebrew word `{{H5587}}`, *çâʻiph* (סָעִף), signifies a state of being "divided in mind," characterized by indecision, wavering, or internal conflict. Its singular yet potent appearance in [[1 Kings 18:21]] dramatically illustrates Israel's spiritual ambivalence, as Elijah challenges their attempt to serve both Yahweh and Baal. This term powerfully encapsulates the danger of spiritual double-mindedness and the impossibility of maintaining allegiance to competing loyalties. Theologically, `{{H5587}}` underscores God's unwavering demand for exclusive devotion and wholehearted commitment from His people, serving as a timeless call to choose definitively for the Lord and abandon all forms of spiritual compromise.
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