### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻâbâh**, represented by `{{H5666}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to be dense; be (grow) thick(-er)**. Though it appears only **3 times** across **3 unique verses**, its usage carries significant metaphorical weight, describing both physical density and the abstract weight of authority or prosperity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H5666}}` is used in two key contexts. The first is in the account of Rehoboam's succession to the throne. When the people ask him to lighten the burden imposed by his father Solomon, Rehoboam's young advisors counsel him to respond with a show of force, saying, "My little finger shall be **thicker** than my father's loins" ([[1 Kings 12:10]]; [[2 Chronicles 10:10]]). Here, "thicker" metaphorically represents a heavier and more oppressive rule. The second context appears in the Song of Moses, where Jeshurun (Israel) is described as having "grown **thick**" and "covered with fatness" due to prosperity, which in turn leads them to forsake God [[Deuteronomy 32:15]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{H5666}}` by providing contrast or parallel concepts within its specific contexts:
* `{{H3513}}` **kâbad** (to be heavy): This word is used in direct relation to `{{H5666}}` in the story of Rehoboam. The people complain that Solomon made their yoke **heavy**, establishing the burden that Rehoboam threatens to make "thicker" [[1 Kings 12:10]].
* `{{H7043}}` **qâlal** (to be (causatively, make) light): This serves as the direct antonym in the same narrative. The people plead with Rehoboam, "make thou it **lighter** unto us," a request he rejects in favor of a heavier, "thicker" burden [[2 Chronicles 10:10]].
* `{{H8080}}` **shâman** (become (make, wax) fat): Used alongside `{{H5666}}` in Deuteronomy, this word emphasizes the physical state of over-abundance. The text states that Jeshurun "waxed **fat**" and "grown thick," linking the two concepts to their subsequent rebellion [[Deuteronomy 32:15]].
* `{{H3780}}` **kâsâh** (be covered): This word further describes Israel's state of being engorged with prosperity. The phrase "thou art **covered** with fatness" immediately follows the use of `{{H5666}}`, reinforcing the image of being dense and full [[Deuteronomy 32:15]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H5666}}` is tied to its powerful metaphorical applications.
* **The Arrogance of Power:** In the context of Rehoboam, the word illustrates how authority can be expressed as a physical weight or burden. The choice to be "thicker" is a choice for oppression over service, leading directly to the division of the kingdom [[1 Kings 12:10]].
* **The Danger of Prosperity:** In Deuteronomy, growing "thick" is a negative condition. It represents a state of material comfort so complete that it leads to spiritual insensitivity, pride, and ultimately the abandonment of God, the very source of that prosperity [[Deuteronomy 32:15]].
* **Physicality as Spiritual Metaphor:** The word demonstrates a key biblical theme where a physical state reflects a spiritual reality. Whether describing the "thickness" of a king's finger or the "thickness" of a pampered nation, the term points to a heaviness that burdens others or dulls one's own spirit.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5666}}` is a concise but potent word in the Hebrew lexicon. While used sparingly, it powerfully conveys the concept of density as a metaphor for both oppressive governance and the spiritual dullness that can accompany unchecked prosperity. It illustrates how a simple physical attribute can be used to articulate complex warnings about power, pride, and the relationship between material abundance and spiritual devotion.
TRV