or עָשֻׁק; passive participle of עָשַׁק; used in plural masculine as abstractly, tyranny; oppressed(-ion). (Doubtful.)
Transliteration:ʻâshûwq
Pronunciation:aw-shook'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H6217}}` (ʻâshûwq) is a passive participle derived from the verbal root `{{H6231}}` (ʻâshaq), which fundamentally means "to oppress," "to extort," or "to deal unjustly with." As a passive participle, ʻâshûwq literally denotes "one who is oppressed" or "the oppressed." Its semantic range extends to encompass the state or condition of being subjected to injustice and wrongful exploitation. Notably, the provided definition indicates its usage in the plural masculine as an abstract noun, signifying "tyranny" or "oppression" itself, referring to the collective acts or system of injustice rather than individual victims. While Strong's notes its usage as "doubtful," this likely refers to its rarity as a distinct substantive rather than its meaning, which is clearly derived from its active root.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{H6217}}` appears only once in the Masoretic Text, found in the book of Job:
* [[Job 35:9]]: "By reason of the multitude of oppressions they cry out; they cry for help because of the arm of the mighty."
In this solitary occurrence, ʻâshûqîm (the plural form of ʻâshûwq) is translated as "oppressions." The context is Elihu's discourse, where he addresses the suffering of humanity and God's justice. The verse describes a situation where people cry out not merely *because* they are oppressed, but *by reason of the multitude of oppressions* itself. This highlights the systemic and pervasive nature of injustice that elicits a desperate cry for divine intervention. The "arm of the mighty" (Hebrew: zĕrôaʿ rabbîm) refers to the power wielded by those who perpetrate this oppression, underscoring the vulnerability of the victims. This single usage powerfully encapsulates the abstract sense of "tyranny" or "oppression" as a force that provokes anguish and a plea for deliverance.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the verbal root `{{H6231}}` (ʻâshaq), from which `{{H6217}}` is derived. This root is prevalent throughout the Old Testament and signifies active oppression, extortion, or defrauding. Other related terms include:
* `{{H6233}}` (ʻosheq): A masculine noun directly from the same root, meaning "oppression," "extortion," or "injustice."
* `{{H2555}}` (ḥāmās): "Violence," "wrong," or "injustice," often implying physical harm or aggressive wrongdoing.
* `{{H7451}}` (ra'a): A broad term for "evil," "wickedness," or "distress," which can encompass the experience of oppression.
The concept of ʻâshûq is deeply intertwined with biblical themes of social justice (mishpat), righteousness (tsedeq or tsedakah), and the plight of the vulnerable. It stands in stark contrast to the divine call for equitable treatment and protection of the poor, the widow, the orphan, and the sojourner.
### Theological Significance
The singular appearance of `{{H6217}}` in [[Job 35:9]] carries profound theological weight, even in its rarity. It underscores the biblical recognition of systemic injustice and tyranny as a source of deep human suffering and a legitimate cause for lament before God. The cry of the ʻâshûqîm (the oppressed) is a recurring motif in Scripture, signaling that God hears the cries of those subjected to unrighteous power. This aligns with God's character as a deliverer and a defender of the vulnerable, a theme powerfully articulated in the Law and the Prophets. The divine response to oppression is often portrayed as a demonstration of God's justice and sovereignty over human affairs. While [[Job 35:9]] specifically describes the human cry, the broader biblical narrative consistently affirms God's abhorrence of oppression and His ultimate commitment to righteousness and the vindication of the wronged. The existence of such a word, even if rare, highlights the biblical worldview's acute awareness of the reality and impact of institutionalized injustice.
### Summary
`{{H6217}}` (ʻâshûq) is a passive participle derived from the Hebrew root `{{H6231}}` meaning "to oppress." While it can denote "one who is oppressed," its sole biblical occurrence in [[Job 35:9]] uses its plural masculine form (ʻâshûqîm) abstractly to signify "oppressions" or "tyranny." This rare term powerfully articulates the systemic nature of injustice that provokes cries for help from those under the "arm of the mighty." Theologically, ʻâshûq serves as a poignant reminder of the biblical emphasis on the reality of human suffering due to oppression, God's attentiveness to the cries of the wronged, and His ultimate commitment to justice and righteousness in the world.
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