The Hebrew word ʻûwts, represented by H5779, is a primitive root meaning to consult or take advice. Appearing only 3 times across 2 unique verses, its usage is specific, denoting a collaborative deliberation, either to form a plan or to seek guidance in response to a critical event.
In its biblical contexts, H5779 is used to describe the act of strategic planning. In Isaiah 8:10, it is used twice in a defiant statement against Israel's enemies: "Take counsel together, and it shall come to nought." Here, it refers to the futile plotting of adversaries whose plans are destined to fail because God is with His people. Conversely, in Judges 19:30, it is a command for constructive deliberation. Following a national crisis, the people of Israel are urged to "take advice" as a necessary step before speaking and acting, highlighting its role in forming a unified and righteous response.
Several related words help frame the meaning of consultation and its outcomes:
- H6098 ʻêtsâh (advice; by implication, plan; also prudence; advice, advisement, counsel(l-(or)), purpose): This noun represents the "counsel" itself, the direct product of the verb ʻûwts. It is the plan that is formulated when enemies "Take counsel" together Isaiah 8:10.
- H1696 dâbar (a primitive root; perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak): This verb often represents the next step after counsel is taken. In both Judges 19:30 and Isaiah 8:10, the action of speaking follows the act of consultation, showing that deliberation leads to a declaration or a spoken word.
- H7760 sûwm (a primitive root; to put... consider...): This verb is paired with ʻûwts in Judges 19:30, where the Israelites are told to "consider of it, take advice." It emphasizes that proper consultation must be preceded by careful thought and consideration of the facts.
The theological weight of H5779 is centered on the validity and source of counsel.
- Futile Human Counsel: The word illustrates the theme that human plans and conspiracies are ultimately worthless when set against God's sovereign will. The counsel taken by enemies in Isaiah 8:10 is immediately nullified by the declaration that "God is with us."
- Wisdom in Deliberation: In Judges 19:30, taking advice is presented as a vital part of a righteous process for a community in crisis. It forms a three-part command—consider, take advice, and speak—suggesting a divine model for careful, communal decision-making.
- The Prelude to Divine Judgment: Whether used by enemies or God's people, the act of taking counsel sets the stage for a subsequent action or word that reveals God's ultimate authority over all human plans.
In summary, while H5779 is a rare term, it carries significant meaning about the process of deliberation. It contrasts the impotent counsel of those who oppose God with the necessary and wise counsel sought by those facing moments of moral and national crisis. The word powerfully underscores the biblical principle that the ultimate success or failure of any advice or plan rests entirely on its alignment with the presence and purpose of God.
TRV