### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻad**, represented by `{{H5706}}`, refers to **booty** or **prey**. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. The definition specifies that its meaning is tied to the aim of an attack, highlighting the object of conquest or predation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H5706}}` consistently appears in contexts of conflict and conquest. It is used in Jacob's prophecy to describe the tribe of Benjamin as a wolf that will **devour** the **prey** in the morning [[Genesis 49:27]]. In a prophetic oracle, the LORD declares that He will rise up "to the **prey**," referring to the nations He will gather for judgment [[Zephaniah 3:8]]. The word also signifies the spoils of victory, as in the aftermath of a conflict where "the **prey** of a great spoil" is divided among the victors [[Isaiah 33:23]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of conquest and its results:
* `{{H2963}}` **ṭâraph** (to pluck off or pull to pieces; ... ravin, rend in pieces, ... tear (in pieces).): This word describes the violent action taken upon the prey. It is used in the prophecy that Benjamin shall **ravin** like a wolf before devouring the prey [[Genesis 49:27]].
* `{{H398}}` **ʼâkal** (to eat ... consume, devour): This verb often follows the act of capturing prey, signifying its total consumption or destruction. It appears alongside `{{H5706}}` when Benjamin is prophesied to **devour** the prey [[Genesis 49:27]].
* `{{H7998}}` **shâlâl** (booty; prey, spoil): This term is a direct synonym for the spoils of war. It is used in parallel with `{{H5706}}` to describe what is divided after a victory, such as when Benjamin divides the **spoil** at night [[Genesis 49:27]].
* `{{H957}}` **baz** (plunder; booty, prey, spoil(-ed)): Another close synonym, this word also refers to the plunder taken in conflict. It appears in a passage where the lame take the **prey** after the **prey** `{{H5706}}` of a great spoil is divided [[Isaiah 33:23]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5706}}` is seen in its powerful metaphorical applications.
* **Prophetic Identity:** The term is used to define the character of a tribe, as seen in Jacob's blessing for Benjamin. The ability to seize **prey** is a mark of strength and a core part of the tribe's prophesied destiny [[Genesis 49:27]].
* **Divine Judgment:** `{{H5706}}` elevates the concept of prey from a simple animalistic target to a metaphor for divine justice. God himself is depicted as rising "to the **prey**," framing the wicked nations as the object of His righteous anger and retribution [[Zephaniah 3:8]].
* **The Spoils of Victory:** The word underscores the tangible outcome of conflict. In Isaiah, the division of **prey** signifies a total and decisive victory, where even the weak are able to share in the spoils, highlighting a complete reversal of fortunes [[Isaiah 33:23]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5706}}` functions as a specific and potent term for the spoils of conflict. While rare, its appearances are significant, tying into themes of prophetic blessing, divine judgment against nations, and the ultimate rewards of victory. It illustrates how the concept of **prey** is used to frame the dynamics of power, from a predatory wolf to the sovereign action of God.
TRV