### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻaz**, represented by `{{H5794}}`, conveys concepts of strength, vehemence, and harshness. Derived from ʻāzaz, its meaning ranges from fierce and mighty to rough or greedy. It appears **23 times** across **23 unique verses**, highlighting its role in describing potent forces, formidable beings, and intense characteristics.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H5794}}` is used to depict power in various forms. It describes the overwhelming force of nature, as when the LORD used a **strong** east wind to part the sea [[Exodus 14:21]] and made a path through **mighty** waters [[Isaiah 43:16]]. The term also characterizes formidable people and nations, such as the **strong** people dwelling in the land of Canaan [[Numbers 13:28]] and a king with a **fierce** countenance [[Daniel 8:23]]. Furthermore, it expresses the intensity of emotions, where love is said to be as **strong** as death [[Song of Solomon 8:6]] and anger is described as **fierce** [[Genesis 49:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for the concept of strength and power:
* `{{H553}}` **ʼâmats** (be courageous, strong, stronger): This word often appears in contexts of being strong enough to overcome an opponent, as when an enemy is "too **strong**" [[Psalms 18:17]].
* `{{H6184}}` **ʻârîyts** (terrible, mighty, oppressor, strong): Used in parallel with **ʻaz**, this term describes the fearsome nature of powerful nations [[Isaiah 25:3]].
* `{{H3581}}` **kôach** (might, power, strength): This word for might is linked with **ʻaz** in Jacob's blessing to Reuben, who is called the "excellency of **power**" [[Genesis 49:3]].
* `{{H7186}}` **qâsheh** (cruel, grievous, hard): This term captures the harsh aspect of **ʻaz**, as seen in [[Song of Solomon 8:6]] where jealousy is described as **cruel**.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5794}}` is evident in its application to both divine action and human character.
* **God's Sovereign Power:** The word is used to illustrate God's ability to control creation for His purposes, such as when He parted the sea with a **strong** wind [[Exodus 14:21]] or delivered His people from a **strong** enemy [[2 Samuel 22:18]].
* **Human Opposition and Might:** It characterizes the enemies of God and His people, from the **mighty** who lie in wait against David [[Psalms 59:3]] to the **fierce** nations that oppose Israel [[Deuteronomy 28:50]]. It is also used to describe the pomp of the **strong** which the Lord will make to cease [[Ezekiel 7:24]].
* **Intensity of Character:** The word describes unyielding qualities, both positive and negative. Love is portrayed as an unbreakably **strong** force [[Song of Solomon 8:6]], while a rich man's speech can be **roughly** delivered [[Proverbs 18:23]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5794}}` **ʻaz** is a dynamic term that encapsulates the idea of intense power and force. It is applied to God's control over nature, the might of armies and kings, and the profound strength of human emotions. Whether describing a **strong** wind, a **fierce** king, or love as **strong** as death, **ʻaz** consistently points to a powerful and vehement nature.
TRV