### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻânag**, represented by `{{H6026}}`, describes a state of being soft, pliable, or luxurious. Appearing **10 times** in **10 unique verses**, it figuratively expresses concepts of delicate living, personal delight, and even sporting oneself. Its meaning ranges from a tender, physical delicateness to a deep, spiritual pleasure.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H6026}}` is used to convey a profound sense of satisfaction and joy, often in relation to God. Believers are called to **delight** themselves in the LORD `{{H3068}}`, with the promise that He will grant the desires of their heart [[Psalms 37:4]]. This act of delighting in the Almighty `{{H7706}}` is presented as a mark of a righteous person [[Job 22:26]], in contrast to the wicked who will not consistently call upon God [[Job 27:10]]. The word also describes the physical state of being **delicate**, as with the "tender and delicate" woman [[Deuteronomy 28:56]] or the "comely and delicate" daughter of Zion [[Jeremiah 6:2]]. In a negative context, it is used for those who **sport** themselves in mockery [[Isaiah 57:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to clarify the meaning of `{{H6026}}`:
* `{{H6028}}` **ʻânôg** (delicate): This adjectival form comes from the same root and is used alongside `{{H6026}}` to emphasize a state of luxury and tenderness, as seen in the description of a woman who has never had to set her foot upon the ground [[Deuteronomy 28:56]].
* `{{H1880}}` **deshen** (fatness): This term represents the source of satisfaction. In [[Isaiah 55:2]], the soul is invited to **delight** itself in "fatness," signifying the rich spiritual abundance provided by God, as opposed to laboring for things that do not satisfy.
* `{{H6035}}` **ʻânâv** (meek): This word identifies those who will experience true delight. The Bible states that the **meek** will inherit the earth and **delight** themselves in the abundance of peace [[Psalms 37:11]].
* `{{H7706}}` **Shadday** (Almighty): This name for God is the object of delight in the book of Job. One can **have thy delight** in the **Almighty** [[Job 22:26]], a question posed to challenge the integrity of the wicked [[Job 27:10]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6026}}` is significant, highlighting the nature of a true relationship with God.
* **Conditional Blessing:** The act of delighting in God is directly linked to receiving divine favor and promises. When one delights in the LORD, He gives the desires of the heart [[Psalms 37:4]] and causes them to "ride upon the high places of the earth" [[Isaiah 58:14]].
* **Spiritual Satisfaction:** Isaiah contrasts spending labor `{{H3018}}` for bread `{{H3899}}` that does not satisfy with hearkening to God and allowing one's soul `{{H5315}}` to **delight** itself in fatness `{{H1880}}`, establishing a principle that true fulfillment is found in God alone.
* **The Object of Delight:** The focus is consistently placed on God as the proper source of all delight, whether referred to as the LORD `{{H3068}}` or the Almighty `{{H7706}}`. This frames delight as an act of worship and trust.
* **Future Restoration:** The term is connected to the future hope of God's people. The meek will **delight** in abundant peace upon inheriting the earth [[Psalms 37:11]], and the children of Zion will be **delighted** with the abundance of her glory [[Isaiah 66:11]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6026}}` is a rich term that moves beyond simple happiness. It encompasses both a physical state of softness and luxury and a profound spiritual state of finding ultimate pleasure and satisfaction in the LORD. It teaches that true delight is not found in worldly pursuits but is a gift experienced by the meek and humble who direct their hearts toward the Almighty, leading to divine blessing and eternal peace.
TRV