### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻêseq**, represented by `{{H6230}}`, means **strife**. Derived from the root word ʻâsaq, it appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, where it is used as a proper name to mark a place of conflict.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{H6230}}` occurs in [[Genesis 26:20]]. The narrative describes a dispute where the "herdmen of Gerar did strive with Isaac's herdmen, saying, The water is ours." As a direct result of this confrontation, Isaac named the well **Esek**, which translates to strife, "because they strove with him." The naming of the well serves as a permanent memorial of the contention that took place over a vital resource.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide deeper context for the strife at the well of Esek:
* `{{H6229}}` **ʻâsaq** (strove with): This is the primitive root from which **ʻêseq** is derived. It means to press upon or quarrel and is used in [[Genesis 26:20]] to describe the action that gave the well its name.
* `{{H7378}}` **rîyb** (contend): This word, meaning to wrangle or hold a controversy, is also used in [[Genesis 26:20]] to describe the conflict. It appears elsewhere in contexts of pleading a case or contending with others, including God ([[Psalms 35:1]], [[Job 40:2]]).
* `{{H7462}}` **râʻâh** (herdman, shepherd): This term identifies the occupation of those involved in the dispute. While it denotes the "herdmen" at Esek, it is more broadly used for a shepherd or pastor, including as a title for the LORD [[Psalms 23:1]].
* `{{H559}}` **ʼâmar** (saying): This common verb for speech is used to voice the specific claim made during the conflict, "The water is ours" [[Genesis 26:20]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H6230}}` is rooted in its illustration of human conflict.
* **Memorial of Strife:** The naming of the well **Esek** establishes a biblical theme of places being named to commemorate key events. In this instance, a physical location is forever marked by an act of human strife over earthly possessions [[Genesis 26:20]].
* **Human Conflict vs. Divine Care:** The strife is between herdmen `{{H7462}}` over water. This stands in contrast to the use of the same root word `{{H7462}}` to describe the LORD as a shepherd who provides for his people [[Psalms 23:1]] and gives them pastors to feed them with knowledge and understanding [[Jeremiah 3:15]].
* **Varieties of Contention:** The use of the related word `rîyb` `{{H7378}}` in the narrative connects this specific quarrel to a broader biblical concept of contention, which ranges from disputes between people to a person pleading a case before the LORD [[Psalms 35:1]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6230}}` **ʻêseq** is a highly specific term for **strife**, used a single time to name a well that was the site of a dispute. Though rare, its meaning is amplified by its verbal root, `ʻâsaq` (to strive), and the surrounding narrative. It serves as a clear example of how conflict over resources is a recurring part of the human story, standing in contrast to the peace and provision offered by God as the ultimate shepherd.
TRV