### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻêtsâh**, represented by `{{H6097}}`, is defined as **timber** or **trees**. It is a very rare word, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible. Its sole usage is as the feminine form of the more common word for tree, עֵץ.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{H6097}}` is found in a declaration of judgment in [[Jeremiah 6:6]]. The LORD{H3068} of hosts{H6635} commands the besieging army to "Hew ye down{H3772} **trees**" in order to build a siege mount{H5550} against Jerusalem{H3389}. The word is used here to refer to the raw material for warfare, an instrument of divine punishment against the city for its pervasive oppression{H6233}.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{H6097}}` is illuminated by several key words within its only verse:
* `{{H3772}}` **kârath** (to cut): This verb describes the direct action taken upon the **trees**. Its definition, "to cut (off, down or asunder)," signifies a destructive act that serves as the first step in the siege.
* `{{H5550}}` **çôlᵉlâh** (mount): This word identifies the purpose for felling the trees. It is "a military mound, i.e. rampart of besiegers," built to overcome the city's defenses.
* `{{H6485}}` **pâqad** (to be visited): This explains the reason for the siege. Jerusalem is a "city to be **visited**," which in this context refers to a hostile visit for the purpose of punishment or judgment.
* `{{H6233}}` **ʻôsheq** (oppression): This specifies the sin for which Jerusalem is being judged. The city is described as being full of "injury, fraud... extortion," which has provoked the LORD's response.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6097}}` is derived entirely from its singular, stark context in [[Jeremiah 6:6]].
* **Creation as an Instrument of Judgment:** The command to use **trees** for a siege rampart shows how elements of the natural world can be repurposed by God to execute His judgments. What is typically a source of life and building material is turned into an agent of destruction.
* **The Inescapable Consequence of Sin:** The felling of **trees** is a tangible and visible step in the punishment of Jerusalem. It demonstrates that the city's "oppression" `{{H6233}}` has led to a direct and physical consequence mandated by God.
* **Divine Sovereignty over All:** The command is given by the "LORD of hosts" (`{{H3068}}`, `{{H6635}}`), highlighting His absolute authority to command not only armies but also the use of natural resources to fulfill His purposes, whether for blessing or for cursing.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6097}}`, meaning **timber** or **trees**, is a term whose biblical significance is defined by its sole appearance. It is not used to describe nature in a general sense, but specifically as a resource for enacting divine judgment. The command in [[Jeremiah 6:6]] to hew down **trees** to build a siege mount against Jerusalem serves as a powerful illustration of God's sovereignty and the severe consequences of persistent sin, where even the land's resources are turned against its people.
TRV