### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼimrâh**, represented by `{{H565}}`, means {something said} and is translated as **commandment**, **speech**, or **word**. It appears **37 times** across **35 unique verses**. This term is predominantly used to refer to a divine utterance, a specific expression of God's will, promise, or command.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H565}}` is frequently used to describe the nature and effect of God's communication. It is presented as pure and tested, like silver refined seven times [[Psalm 12:6]]. This divine **word** is a source of life and comfort in affliction [[Psalm 119:50]] and a guide for moral living, ordering the steps of the faithful and keeping them from sin ([[Psalm 119:11]], [[Psalm 119:133]]). In a narrative context, it signifies a command or decree that will be fulfilled, as when the LORD fulfills his **word** which he had commanded in the days of old [[Lamentations 2:17]]. It is also used in human contexts, such as Lamech's **speech** to his wives [[Genesis 4:23]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to define the scope of spoken communication:
* `{{H1697}}` **dâbâr** (a word; a matter): This term is a broader word for "word" or "thing" and is sometimes used in parallel with `{{H565}}`, as in [[Psalm 147:15]], where God's commandment `{{H565}}` is sent forth and his **word** `{{H1697}}` runs swiftly.
* `{{H559}}` **ʼâmar** (to say): As the primitive root from which `{{H565}}` is derived, this verb signifies the act of speaking. In [[Genesis 4:23]], Lamech **said** `{{H559}}` unto his wives, telling them to hearken to his **speech** `{{H565}}`.
* `{{H6680}}` **tsâvâh** (to command): This word directly relates to the authoritative nature of `{{H565}}`. God's **word** `{{H565}}` is fulfilled precisely because He had **commanded** `{{H6680}}` it [[Lamentations 2:17]].
* `{{H3948}}` **leqach** (doctrine, learning): This term is used poetically alongside `{{H565}}` to describe the instructive nature of God's communication, where his **doctrine** `{{H3948}}` drops like rain and his **speech** `{{H565}}` distills like the dew [[Deuteronomy 32:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H565}}` centers on the character and reliability of God's revealed will.
* **Purity and Perfection:** The **word** of the LORD is described as pure and tried ([[Psalm 18:30]], [[Psalm 119:140]]), establishing it as a flawless standard. It is a shield for those who trust in Him [[Proverbs 30:5]].
* **Life and Sustenance:** God's **word** has the power to quicken the soul [[Psalm 119:50]] and uphold a person in life [[Psalm 119:116]]. The believer's response is to love it and rejoice in it as one who finds great spoil ([[Psalm 119:140]], [[Psalm 119:162]]).
* **Guiding Authority:** It serves as a directive for righteous living. The psalmist asks for his steps to be ordered by God's **word** so that iniquity will not have dominion [[Psalm 119:133]] and keeps it in his heart to avoid sin [[Psalm 119:11]].
* **Magnified Promise:** God's truth and lovingkindness are demonstrated through His **word**, which He has magnified above His own name [[Psalm 138:2]], indicating its supreme reliability and certainty.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H565}}` is not merely a spoken word but a declaration of divine substance and intent. It is characterized as pure, life-giving, and a source of guidance and comfort. Primarily found in the Psalms, it defines the believer's relationship with God's commands and promises, highlighting a deep trust in their power to save, direct, and sustain.
TRV