### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻêtsâh**, represented by `{{H6098}}`, means **advice**, **plan**, or **counsel**. It is derived from the verb `{{H3289}}` `yâʻats`, meaning to advise or resolve. Appearing 88 times across 85 verses, `{{H6098}}` is a significant term for understanding the nature of divine will and human intention in the scriptures.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H6098}}` is used to contrast the fallible plans of humanity with the infallible purposes of God. Human counsel, even from the wisest advisors like Ahithophel, can be turned "into foolishness" by the LORD ([[2 Samuel 15:31]], [[2 Samuel 17:14]]). People are warned not to walk in the "counsel of the ungodly" [[Psalms 1:1]] or to take counsel that is not from God [[Isaiah 30:1]]. In direct opposition, the "counsel of the LORD" is what ultimately stands [[Proverbs 19:21]]. God's counsel is described as wonderful, faithful, and true from of old ([[Isaiah 25:1]], [[Isaiah 28:29]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of counsel and planning:
* `{{H3289}}` **yâʻats** (to advise): The root verb from which `{{H6098}}` is derived. It refers to the act of advising, consulting, or purposing. It is used to describe God giving counsel [[Psalms 16:7]] and is the root for the title "Counsellor" [[Isaiah 9:6]].
* `{{H4284}}` **machăshâbâh** (intention, plan, device): This term often appears alongside `{{H6098}}` to distinguish between human "devices" and God's "counsel," emphasizing that while a person's heart has many plans, only the LORD's counsel will prevail ([[Proverbs 19:21]], [[Psalms 33:10-11]]).
* `{{H2451}}` **chokmâh** (wisdom): This word is frequently associated with counsel, highlighting that true counsel is founded on wisdom. The Spirit of the LORD is described as a "spirit of wisdom... of counsel" [[Isaiah 11:2]], and Scripture affirms there is no wisdom or counsel against the LORD [[Proverbs 21:30]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6098}}` is centered on the sovereignty and wisdom of God.
* **Divine vs. Human Counsel:** A primary theme is the futility of human plans when set against God's will. The LORD brings the counsel of the nations to nothing [[Psalms 33:10]], but His own counsel stands forever ([[Psalms 33:11]], [[Isaiah 46:10]]).
* **An Attribute of God:** Counsel is presented as an inherent quality of God Himself. He is "Great in counsel" [[Jeremiah 32:19]] and possesses counsel alongside wisdom and might ([[Job 12:13]], [[Proverbs 8:14]]). It is a key aspect of the Spirit of the LORD [[Isaiah 11:2]].
* **A Source of Guidance and Judgment:** God guides His people with His counsel [[Psalms 73:24]]. To hear and receive counsel is the path to wisdom [[Proverbs 19:20]], while rejecting His counsel is an act of rebellion that leads to judgment ([[Psalms 107:11]], [[Proverbs 1:30]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6098}}` encapsulates more than simple advice. It serves as a cornerstone for understanding the conflict between divine purpose and human schemes. The term illustrates that true, enduring counsel originates from God, whose plans are inseparable from His wisdom and power. It defines the framework for divine guidance and establishes the ultimate authority of God's sovereign will over all human intentions and devices.
TRV