or שָׂפַח; (Isaiah 3:17), a primitive root; properly, to scrape out, but in certain peculiar senses (of removal or association); abiding, gather together, cleave, smite with the scab.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **çâphach**, represented by `{{H5596}}`, is a primitive root with a range of meanings related to removal or association. Its primary definition is to scrape out, but it is used in scripture to mean abiding, gathering together, cleaving, or to smite with a scab. It appears **6 times** across **6 unique verses**, with an alternate spelling used in [[Isaiah 3:17]].
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The usage of `{{H5596}}` in scripture highlights its dual application to both positive association and negative affliction. In a positive sense, it describes how strangers will **cleave** to the house of Jacob, joining with God's people [[Isaiah 14:1]]. It can also signify a desperate need for attachment, as when a destitute man begs to be **put** into a priest's office to survive [[1 Samuel 2:36]]. Conversely, it is used for divine punishment, where the Lord will **smite with a scab** the daughters of Zion [[Isaiah 3:17]]. The word also depicts being forcibly removed from a place of belonging, as David laments being driven from **abiding** in the Lord's inheritance [[1 Samuel 26:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which `{{H5596}}` is used:
* `{{H3867}}` **lâvâh** (to twine, i.e. (by implication) to unite, to remain): This word is used in parallel with `{{H5596}}` in [[Isaiah 14:1]], where strangers will be **joined** `{{H3867}}` and **cleave** `{{H5596}}` to Israel, reinforcing the theme of association.
* `{{H1644}}` **gârash** (to drive out from a possession): This word acts as an antonym in [[1 Samuel 26:19]]. David has been **driven out** `{{H1644}}`, preventing him from **abiding** `{{H5596}}` in God's inheritance, which shows the opposing actions of forced removal versus staying attached.
* `{{H7812}}` **shâchâh** (to depress, i.e. prostrate (especially reflexive, in homage to royalty or God)): In [[1 Samuel 2:36]], a man will **crouch** `{{H7812}}` in an act of desperation to beg that he be **put** `{{H5596}}` into a priestly role, showing an act of obeisance to gain a position of attachment.
* `{{H5647}}` **ʻâbad** (to work (in any sense); by implication, to serve): The consequence of being driven from **abiding** `{{H5596}}` in the Lord's inheritance is being told to go **serve** `{{H5647}}` other gods, linking physical separation from God's land with spiritual separation [[1 Samuel 26:19]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5596}}` is evident in its application to one's relationship with God and His people.
* **Inclusion in the Covenant:** The word positively frames the inclusion of gentiles, who will **cleave** `{{H5596}}` to the house of Jacob, becoming part of the community of faith [[Isaiah 14:1]].
* **Separation from God:** To be removed from **abiding** `{{H5596}}` in the Lord's inheritance is presented as a curse, a separation that forces one toward the service of false gods [[1 Samuel 26:19]]. This positions physical and spiritual belonging as fundamentally intertwined.
* **Divine Judgment:** The term is also an instrument of divine judgment. God himself **smites with a scab** `{{H5596}}` as a punishment, demonstrating that an "attachment" can also be a form of affliction directly from the Lord [[Isaiah 3:17]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5596}}` is a multifaceted word that conveys concepts of both connection and affliction. Its meaning shifts dramatically with context, from the blessed act of strangers cleaving to Israel, to the desperate plea of a man seeking to be attached to the priesthood, to the painful judgment of God smiting with a scab. Through its varied uses, `{{H5596}}` illustrates the profound biblical themes of belonging, exclusion, and the direct hand of God in the affairs of humanity.
TRV