### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻâshôwq**, represented by `{{H6216}}`, defines an **oppressor** or tyrant. It appears just **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, highlighting a specific and severe form of injustice. The term is derived from a root meaning "oppressive" and is used as a noun to identify the one who commits such acts.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole biblical appearance, `{{H6216}}` is central to a divine command for social justice. In [[Jeremiah 22:3]], the LORD{H3068} instructs His people: "Execute{H6213} ye judgment{H4941} and righteousness{H6666}, and deliver{H5337} the spoiled{H1497} out of the hand{H3027} of the **oppressor**{H6216}". This places the act of oppression in direct opposition to God's requirements for justice and righteousness.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the same passage illuminate the context of the **oppressor's** actions:
* `{{H1497}}` **gâzal** (to pluck off; specifically to flay, strip or rob; spoil): This term identifies the victim of the oppressor, the one who has been robbed or stripped of their possessions. The primary command in [[Jeremiah 22:3]] is to "deliver{H5337} the spoiled{H1497}" from the oppressor's hand.
* `{{H3238}}` **yânâh** (to rage or be violent; by implication, to suppress, to maltreat; do no wrong): This verb describes the unjust actions forbidden by God in the same command. The people are told to "do no wrong{H3238}" to the vulnerable, which stands in contrast to the actions of an oppressor.
* `{{H2554}}` **châmaç** (to be violent; by implication, to maltreat; do violence): This word denotes the violence that the oppressor perpetrates. The command explicitly forbids doing "violence{H2554} to the stranger{H1616}, the fatherless{H3490}, nor the widow{H490}" [[Jeremiah 22:3]].
### Theological Significance
The appearance of `{{H6216}}` carries significant theological weight, framing oppression as a direct violation of God's will.
* **A Command for Active Intervention:** The Lord does not merely forbid oppression; He commands His people to "deliver{H5337} the spoiled{H1497} out of the hand{H3027} of the oppressor{H6216}" [[Jeremiah 22:3]]. This requires active involvement in the pursuit of justice.
* **Special Concern for the Vulnerable:** The command specifically names the "stranger{H1616}, the fatherless{H3490}, nor the widow{H490}" as those who must not be wronged or violated. This highlights God's particular concern for the marginalized and powerless in society.
* **Defining Righteousness:** The confrontation with the oppressor is presented as a core component of executing "judgment{H4941} and righteousness{H6666}" [[Jeremiah 22:3]]. This shows that true righteousness involves actively opposing injustice and protecting its victims.
### Summary
In summary, while **ʻâshôwq** `{{H6216}}` is a rare word, its singular use in scripture is powerful. It defines the **oppressor** not just as a wrongdoer, but as a direct target for those commanded by God to execute justice. The term functions within a clear directive to defend the spoiled, the stranger, the fatherless, and the widow, making the opposition to oppression a fundamental tenet of biblical righteousness.
TRV