### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻâphar**, represented by `{{H6080}}`, is a primitive root that functions as a verb meaning to **cast dust**. It is derived directly from the noun for dust, עָפָר, and its definition is "to be dust; cast (dust)". This specific verb appears only **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, marking it as a highly specific term.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical appearance of `{{H6080}}` occurs in the narrative of King David's flight from Jerusalem. In [[2 Samuel 16:13]], as David and his men travel, Shimei follows along on a hillside, cursing the king. The verse states that Shimei "threw stones at him, and **cast** dust." This act of casting dust was a physical expression of utter contempt and rejection directed at the king in his moment of vulnerability.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of `{{H6080}}` is illuminated by its relationship to other key Hebrew words:
* `{{H6083}}` **ʻâphâr** (dust (as powdered or gray); hence, clay, earth, mud): This is the noun from which the verb `{{H6080}}` is formed. It is the very substance Shimei **cast** at David [[2 Samuel 16:13]]. Biblically, it is also the material from which God formed man, linking humanity to the earth [[Genesis 2:7]].
* `{{H68}}` **ʼeben** (a stone): This word is used in the immediate context of `{{H6080}}`, as Shimei's attack on David involved throwing **stones** in addition to casting dust [[2 Samuel 16:13]]. Elsewhere, a **stone** can symbolize a sure foundation laid by God [[Isaiah 28:16]] or a hard heart that needs to be replaced [[Ezekiel 36:26]].
### Theological Significance
While the verb `{{H6080}}` itself has a very narrow application, its root concept—dust, `{{H6083}}`—carries significant theological weight.
* **Humanity's Origin and Frailty:** The Bible establishes that humanity was formed from **dust** [[Genesis 2:7]], a constant reminder of our humble origins and physical mortality.
* **The State of the Dead and Hope of Resurrection:** The dead are described as those who "sleep in the **dust** of the earth" [[Daniel 12:2]], but scripture also contains the promise that those who "dwell in **dust**" will one day awake and sing [[Isaiah 26:19]].
* **Divine Sovereignty:** God's power is shown in His ability to raise the poor "out of the **dust**" [[1 Samuel 2:8]] and in His creative might, which "comprehended the **dust** of the earth in a measure" [[Isaiah 40:12]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6080}}` is a specific verb that denotes a physical act of humiliation and cursing. Its singular use in scripture is powerful because it draws on the deep and multifaceted meaning of its source noun, **ʻâphâr** `{{H6083}}`. This concept of dust serves as a symbol for humanity's creation, our mortal condition, and the ultimate power of God to both humble and exalt, offering a future hope of resurrection from the dust itself.
TRV