### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻâshath**, represented by `{{H6245}}`, is a primitive root with a definition that connects a physical state to a mental one: "probably to be sleek, i.e. glossy; hence (through the idea of polishing) to excogitate (as if forming in the mind); shine, think." It is a rare term, appearing only **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two uses of `{{H6245}}` present its distinct meanings. In [[Jeremiah 5:28]], it describes wicked men who have "waxen fat" and "**shine**," indicating a glossy, prosperous appearance that contrasts with their failure to judge the cause of the fatherless. Conversely, in [[Jonah 1:6]], the shipmaster rouses Jonah from sleep, urging him to call upon God in the hope that God will "**think**" upon them and prevent them from perishing. One use depicts an outward sign of corrupt indulgence, while the other refers to a life-saving act of divine consideration.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illuminate the contexts of `{{H6245}}`:
* `{{H8080}}` **shâman** (to become fat): This word appears directly alongside `{{H6245}}` in Jeremiah's critique of the wicked who "are waxen **fat**, they shine" [[Jeremiah 5:28]], reinforcing the idea of a sleekness born from excessive wealth.
* `{{H1779}}` **dîyn** (cause, judgement, plea): In the same passage, the wicked are condemned because they do not judge the "**cause**" of the fatherless [[Jeremiah 5:28]], linking their "shining" appearance to a failure of justice.
* `{{H7290}}` **râdam** (to sleep): Jonah is identified as a "**sleeper**" when he is told to arise and call upon God [[Jonah 1:6]]. His state of deep sleep stands in stark contrast to the urgent need for God to "think" and act.
* `{{H430}}` **ʼĕlôhîym** (God): The appeal in the storm is for **God** to think upon the sailors [[Jonah 1:6]], positioning the act of divine thought as the source of potential deliverance.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6245}}` lies in the sharp contrast between its two applications.
* **Divine Consideration:** The ability to "**think**" upon people is presented as a salvific attribute of God. In a moment of crisis, the hope of the sailors rests on whether God will turn His mind toward them to prevent their destruction [[Jonah 1:6]].
* **The Sheen of Injustice:** In Jeremiah, to "**shine**" is not a mark of divine blessing but a sign of wickedness. It is the physical manifestation of prosperity gained by neglecting the needs of the fatherless `{{H3490}}` and the needy `{{H34}}`, who are denied justice [[Jeremiah 5:28]].
* **Internal vs. External:** The word juxtaposes a vital, internal act of God's mind with the superficial, external appearance of corrupt individuals. One leads to life, while the other is an evidence of deeds that lead to condemnation.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6245}}` **ʻâshath** is a nuanced term whose meaning shifts from a physical "shine" to a cognitive "think." Though used only twice, it creates a powerful biblical theme: the saving power of God's active thought stands in direct opposition to the self-serving, glossy appearance of those who forsake justice. The word illustrates how an external state of being sleek can be metaphorically linked to the internal, polished process of forming a thought.
TRV