### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻûwl**, represented by `{{H5764}}`, means **a babe**, **sucking child**, or **infant**. This specific term for a very young child is rare, appearing just **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Its rarity, however, does not diminish its impact, as it is used to illustrate profound theological points about dependence, compassion, and God's promises.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two appearances of `{{H5764}}` are both found in the book of Isaiah, where the word serves a crucial metaphorical role. In [[Isaiah 49:15]], it is used in a rhetorical question to establish the depth of God's faithfulness: "Can a woman forget her **sucking child**...?" This verse contrasts the most profound natural human bond with God's even greater, unfailing compassion. Later, in [[Isaiah 65:20]], the word is used in a prophecy of a renewed creation where there will no longer be an "**infant** of days," meaning a child who dies prematurely. Here, it symbolizes a tragically short life that will be absent in the age to come.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and context of `{{H5764}}`:
* `{{H7355}}` **râcham** (have compassion): This word is directly linked to the **sucking child** `{{H5764}}` in [[Isaiah 49:15]], describing the powerful, merciful love a mother has for the son of her womb.
* `{{H2205}}` **zâqên** (old man): In [[Isaiah 65:20]], this term is set in direct opposition to the "**infant** of days." The contrast between the infant and the **old man** who has "filled his days" highlights a future promise of longevity and completeness.
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (son): This common word for **son** appears in parallel with **sucking child** `{{H5764}}` in [[Isaiah 49:15]], reinforcing the theme of offspring and parental relationship.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H5764}}` is concentrated in its two powerful uses:
* **The Benchmark for Compassion:** The image of a mother with her **sucking child** `{{H5764}}` is used as the ultimate human example of love and remembrance. God uses this powerful image to declare that His own faithfulness is even greater, stating that even if a mother could forget, "yet will I not forget thee" [[Isaiah 49:15]].
* **The Promise of Fulfilled Life:** The "infant of days" in [[Isaiah 65:20]] represents the tragedy of unfulfilled potential and premature death. The promise that such a thing will no longer occur signifies a new era of divine blessing where life is no longer cut short, but every person, from child `{{H5288}}` to old man `{{H2205}}`, will live a full life.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{H5764}}` is not a frequently used word, it carries significant weight in its contexts. It functions as a powerful symbol of complete vulnerability and dependence. Through the image of the **sucking child**, Scripture illustrates both the pinnacle of human compassion and God's promise to establish a future where the tragedy of a life cut short is a thing of the past. It shows how God uses the most relatable human experiences to reveal the depths of His own character and promises.
TRV