### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **çêʻêph**, represented by `{{H5588}}`, is defined as being **divided (in mind)**, or concretely, a **skeptic** or **thought**. It appears only **1 times** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible. Its sole usage presents a concept that stands in direct opposition to the steadfastness of God's law.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The singular appearance of `{{H5588}}` is in [[Psalms 119:113]], where the psalmist declares, "I hate vain **thoughts**: but thy law do I love." In this verse, **çêʻêph** is presented as the object of hate, contrasted directly with the love for God's law. This establishes a clear dichotomy between the instability of divided thoughts or skepticism and the reliable foundation found in divine precepts. The verse frames this as a matter of personal conviction and allegiance.
### Related Words & Concepts
The single occurrence of `{{H5588}}` is defined by its relationship to three other key words in the same verse:
* `{{H8130}}` **sânêʼ** (to hate): This primitive root describes the psalmist's active posture toward vain thoughts. The response is not indifference but to **hate** what is contrary to God, a theme echoed elsewhere, such as in the command for those who love the LORD to **hate** evil [[Psalms 97:10]].
* `{{H8451}}` **tôwrâh** (law): This term for a precept or statute is the direct positive counterpart to `{{H5588}}`. It is the object of the psalmist's love and delight [[Psalms 1:2]]. The **law** is presented as perfect and sure, capable of converting the soul [[Psalms 19:7]].
* `{{H157}}` **ʼâhab** (to love): This word, meaning to have affection for, is the chosen response to God's law. This affection is a core tenet, central to the commandment to **love** the LORD with all one's heart, soul, and might [[Deuteronomy 6:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5588}}` is derived from its stark contrast with God's truth.
* **The Conflict of the Mind:** The word represents a state of being "divided (in mind)" or a skeptic. Its placement in [[Psalms 119:113]] identifies this internal division as something to be hated, an obstacle to a life of devotion.
* **A Deliberate Allegiance:** The verse does not suggest a passive state but an active choice. There is a call to **hate** `{{H8130}}` vain thoughts and to **love** `{{H157}}` God's **law** `{{H8451}}`, framing faithfulness as a conscious decision of the heart and mind.
* **The Antidote of Scripture:** The prescribed remedy for divided, skeptical thoughts is a love for God's **law**. This implies that Scripture provides the wholeness, certainty, and truth that a divided mind lacks, as the law of the LORD is "perfect" [[Psalms 19:7]].
### Summary
In summary, **çêʻêph** `{{H5588}}` is a rare but significant term. Though used only once, its meaning as a "divided" or "skeptic" thought is powerfully contextualized in [[Psalms 119:113]]. It is placed in direct opposition to God's **law** `{{H8451}}`, compelling a choice to **hate** `{{H8130}}` the former and **love** `{{H157}}` the latter. The word serves as a concise biblical illustration of the call to reject a divided mind in favor of wholehearted devotion to the truth of God.
TRV