or שֶׂפֶק; (Job 20:22; Job 36:18), from סָפַק; chastisement; also satiety; stroke, sufficiency.
Transliteration:çêpheq
Pronunciation:say'-fek
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew noun סֵפֶק (çêpheq), Strong's number `{{H5607}}`, is derived from the verbal root סָפַק (sāphaq), `{{H5606}}`, which primarily means "to strike," "to clap," or "to smite." This foundational meaning gives rise to a dual semantic range for the noun, a fascinating dichotomy within its rare occurrences.
Firstly, סֵפֶק can denote a "stroke," "blow," or "chastisement." This meaning directly reflects the action implied by the root, suggesting a punitive or impactful striking. It conveys the idea of a severe consequence or a divine infliction.
Secondly, and seemingly paradoxically, סֵפֶק can also signify "sufficiency" or "satiety." This meaning might stem from the idea of a "full measure" or "enough," perhaps an idiomatic extension from the root's sense of clapping hands in satisfaction or having reached a point of completion. It refers to an abundance or a state of having all that is needed.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The noun סֵפֶק (çêpheq) appears only twice in the Hebrew Bible, both times in the Book of Job, and remarkably, each occurrence exemplifies one of its distinct meanings:
1. **[[Job 20:22]]**: "In the fullness of his sufficiency (בְּשֶׂפֶק), he will be in distress; the hand of every sufferer will come upon him." Here, the word appears as שֶׂפֶק (śepheq), a variant spelling of the same root. The context is Zophar describing the fleeting prosperity of the wicked. The term clearly refers to an abundance or plenitude of resources, which, ironically, will lead to the wicked man's downfall. This usage underscores the meaning of "sufficiency" or "satiety."
2. **[[Job 36:18]]**: "Because there is wrath, beware lest he take you away with a stroke (בְּסֵפֶק); for a great ransom would not deliver you." In this verse, Elihu warns Job about the severity of God's wrath. The word סֵפֶק here unequivocally refers to a "stroke" or "chastisement," a sudden and decisive act of divine judgment. This usage highlights the meaning of "blow" or "punishment."
These two occurrences in Job perfectly illustrate the full semantic range of `{{H5607}}`, demonstrating its capacity to convey both abundance and severe judgment.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the verbal root סָפַק (sāphaq), `{{H5606}}`, from which סֵפֶק is derived. This root's core meaning of "to strike" or "to clap" provides the semantic foundation for both "stroke/chastisement" and, by extension, "sufficiency/satiety" (perhaps from the idea of clapping in satisfaction or having struck a full measure).
Conceptually, סֵפֶק relates to:
* **Divine Discipline and Judgment**: In its sense of "stroke," it aligns with other terms for divine punishment, such as נֶגַע (negaʿ - "plague, stroke," `{{H5061}}`) or מַכָּה (makkāh - "blow, wound," `{{H4347}}`).
* **Abundance and Provision**: In its sense of "sufficiency," it connects to concepts of material prosperity, blessing, and divine provision, though often presented in the context of the wicked's transient wealth. Other words like שָׂבָע (sāḇaʿ - "satiety, abundance," `{{H7648}}`) or רֹב (rōḇ - "multitude, abundance," `{{H7230}}`) share this conceptual space.
* **Consequences of Righteousness/Wickedness**: The word contributes to the biblical theme that God deals justly with humanity, bringing either abundance or judgment according to His righteous decrees.
### Theological Significance
The dual nature of סֵפֶק (çêpheq) carries profound theological significance, particularly as revealed in the Book of Job.
Firstly, it underscores the **sovereignty and multifaceted nature of God's dealings** with humanity. God is capable of both providing abundant "sufficiency" and delivering a decisive "stroke" of judgment. This highlights His comprehensive control over all aspects of life, from material provision to ultimate justice.
Secondly, the use of "sufficiency" in [[Job 20:22]] serves as a stark theological commentary on the **ephemeral nature of worldly prosperity for the wicked**. Their abundance, though seemingly complete, is not a sign of God's favor or lasting security. Instead, it is a precursor to distress and judgment, emphasizing that true security and satisfaction come only from God.
Thirdly, the meaning of "stroke" in [[Job 36:18]] emphasizes the **seriousness of divine wrath and the inescapability of God's judgment** for unrepentant sin. Elihu's warning to Job serves as a reminder that God's discipline can be severe and that no human effort or "great ransom" can avert it once His wrath is set in motion. This highlights God's holiness and His commitment to justice.
In essence, `{{H5607}}` encapsulates a theological paradox: the same divine hand that provides sustenance can also inflict punishment. It compels the reader to consider the source of their prosperity and to stand in awe of God's righteous and powerful governance.
### Summary
The Hebrew noun סֵפֶק (çêpheq), `{{H5607}}`, though rare, offers a rich semantic insight into the biblical understanding of divine interaction with humanity. Derived from the root "to strike," it encompasses two distinct meanings: "stroke" or "chastisement," and "sufficiency" or "satiety." Both meanings are clearly attested in its two biblical occurrences in the Book of Job: [[Job 36:18]] depicts a divine "stroke" of judgment, while [[Job 20:22]] describes the "sufficiency" of the wicked that ultimately leads to their downfall. Theologically, `{{H5607}}` powerfully illustrates God's comprehensive sovereignty, His capacity for both provision and punitive justice, and the transient nature of unrighteous prosperity. It serves as a reminder of God's righteous governance and the serious implications of humanity's choices.
TRV