### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻîyṭ**, represented by `{{H5860}}`, is a primitive root used to describe the act to **swoop down upon** something, either literally or figuratively. It can also be translated as to fly or to rail. This word appears **3 times** in **3 unique verses**, each time highlighting a sudden, aggressive action.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H5860}}` is associated with impulsive and disobedient acts. The people of Israel, faint with hunger, **flew** upon the spoil of sheep and oxen, slaughtering them improperly [[1 Samuel 14:32]]. Similarly, King Saul is condemned for not obeying the voice of the LORD, and instead **didst fly** upon the spoil, an act considered evil in God's sight [[1 Samuel 15:19]]. Figuratively, the word describes verbal assault, as when Nabal **railed** on the messengers sent by David [[1 Samuel 25:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context in which `{{H5860}}` is used:
* `{{H7998}}` **shâlâl** (spoil): This word for booty or prey is the object of the impulsive action in two of the three occurrences of **ʻîyṭ**, representing the target of greedy desire ([[1 Samuel 14:32]], [[1 Samuel 15:19]]).
* `{{H8085}}` **shâmaʻ** (obey): The failure to **obey** the voice of the LORD is the direct cause for Saul’s sinful act of flying upon the spoil, framing the action as one of rebellion [[1 Samuel 15:19]].
* `{{H5037}}` **Nâbâl** (Nabal): The name of the man who **railed** on David's servants. His name means "dolt," which characterizes his foolishly aggressive verbal attack [[1 Samuel 25:14]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5860}}` is demonstrated in its specific contexts:
* **Impulsive Greed:** The act of "swooping" or "flying" upon spoil depicts a lack of self-control and an overwhelming desire for material gain that leads to sin [[1 Samuel 14:32]].
* **Willful Disobedience:** The term is used to characterize a direct violation of God's command. Saul's action to **fly** upon the spoil was not just impulsive, but an act of doing **evil** in the sight of the LORD [[1 Samuel 15:19]].
* **Hostile Speech:** Figuratively, the word illustrates how aggressive and disrespectful language is a form of attack, as when **Nabal** "railed" on the men David sent in peace [[1 Samuel 25:14]].
### Summary
In summary, while infrequent, `{{H5860}}` is a vivid word describing a sudden and aggressive pounce. It is used to depict both a literal, ravenous rush for plunder and a figurative, hostile verbal assault. In each case, the action is portrayed negatively, rooted in impatience, greed, disobedience to God, or foolish aggression.
TRV