### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻetseb**, represented by `{{H6089}}`, conveys concepts of painful toil, pangs, and sorrow. It appears 7 times across 7 unique verses in the Bible. Its meaning is diverse, encompassing not only mental and physical distress but also extending to describe grievous words, the results of labor, and even an idol.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H6089}}` is used to articulate different forms of hardship and worthlessness. It is introduced in the curse upon woman, where she is told she will bring forth children in **sorrow** [[Genesis 3:16]]. The word is also applied to communication, where **grievous** words are shown to stir up anger [[Proverbs 15:1]]. In a different context, it describes the futility of anxious work as "the bread of **sorrows**" [[Psalms 127:2]]. The term can refer to the product of physical exertion, as in the **labour** that yields profit [[Proverbs 14:23]] or the **labours** that risk being lost to a stranger [[Proverbs 5:10]]. Finally, it is used to describe a despised and broken **idol**, questioning the value of a king [[Jeremiah 22:28]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the dimensions of pain, futility, and value associated with `{{H6089}}`:
* `{{H6093}}` **ʻitstsâbôwn** (sorrow, toil): Appearing in the same verse as `{{H6089}}`, this word reinforces the theme of "sorrow" and "worrisomeness" as a direct consequence of the fall [[Genesis 3:16]].
* `{{H7723}}` **shâvᵉʼ** (vain, vanity): This term is used to describe the effort of eating the "bread of sorrows" `{{H6089}}` as ultimately **vain** or useless, highlighting toil that lacks divine blessing [[Psalms 127:2]].
* `{{H959}}` **bâzâh** (despise): This root is used to describe the "idol" `{{H6089}}` in [[Jeremiah 22:28]] as **despised**, connecting the idea of idolatry with contempt and rejection.
* `{{H5310}}` **nâphats** (dash to pieces, scatter): In the same passage, this word describes the idol `{{H6089}}` as **broken**, linking it to a state of being shattered and destroyed [[Jeremiah 22:28]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6089}}` is evident in its application to core biblical themes.
* **The Curse of Toil:** The word is first used to define the pain of childbirth as a direct result of disobedience in the garden, establishing sorrowful labor as a consequence of the fall [[Genesis 3:16]].
* **The Nature of Labor:** Scripture contrasts productive **labour** that leads to profit [[Proverbs 14:23]] with anxious toil for the "bread of **sorrows**," which is depicted as vain [[Psalms 127:2]]. This distinguishes blessed work from fruitless human effort.
* **The Futility of Idolatry:** By using `{{H6089}}` to describe King Coniah as a "despised broken **idol**," the text makes a powerful statement about the worthlessness of a leader or object of trust that has been rejected by God [[Jeremiah 22:28]].
* **Contrast with Divine Blessing:** A key principle is established in Proverbs, which states that the blessing of the LORD makes one rich and adds no **sorrow** with it, clearly separating God's provision from the painful toil that characterizes a cursed world [[Proverbs 10:22]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6089}}` is a multifaceted term that extends beyond simple sorrow. It serves as a cornerstone for understanding biblical concepts of pain, labor, and value. Its use ranges from the physical pangs of childbirth and the fruits of toil to the emotional sting of grievous words and the ultimate worthlessness of a broken idol. Through this word, scripture illustrates the profound consequences of the fall, the distinction between blessed and vain labor, and the futility of placing trust in anything outside of God's blessing.
TRV