### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻeshtônâh**, represented by `{{H6250}}`, refers to **thinking** or **thought**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Its singular appearance highlights a specific aspect of human thought, particularly its transient nature in the face of mortality.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H6250}}` is found in [[Psalms 146:4]], a passage contrasting the frailty of man with the eternal nature of God. The verse states that when a person's breath `{{H7307}}` departs and he returns to the earth, his **thoughts** `{{H6250}}` perish `{{H6}}` on that very day. This context directly ties human thought and plans to physical life, indicating that they cease with death.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the temporary nature of human thought:
* `{{H6}}` **ʼâbad** (properly, to wander away, i.e. lose oneself; by implication to perish): This is the verb used in [[Psalms 146:4]] to describe what happens to thoughts, reinforcing their complete cessation at death.
* `{{H7307}}` **rûwach** (wind; by resemblance breath... life... spirit): This word for "breath" or "spirit" is what departs from a person at death, causing their thoughts to perish [[Psalms 146:4]]. It is the essence of life that, when gone, ends consciousness.
* `{{H3615}}` **kâlâh** (to end, whether intransitive (to cease, be finished, perish) or transitived (to complete, prepare, consume)): This term describes a broader concept of finality. While God's compassions do not **fail** `{{H3615}}` [[Lamentations 3:22]], the heavens and earth were **finished** `{{H3615}}` [[Genesis 2:1]], showing a parallel concept of cessation.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6250}}` is concentrated in its single usage.
* **Transience of Human Schemes:** The word's only appearance emphasizes that human plans and intellect are finite and end abruptly at death [[Psalms 146:4]]. This serves as a pointed reminder not to place ultimate trust in mortal beings.
* **Life as the Basis for Thought:** The term is directly linked to **rûwach** `{{H7307}}`, or "breath." The departure of this spirit results in the perishing of thoughts, underscoring that consciousness is dependent on the life given by God.
* **Contrast with Divine Permanence:** While human thoughts `{{H6250}}` perish, the dossier shows that God's mercies do not **fail** `{{H3615}}` [[Lamentations 3:22]] and God Himself does not change [[Malachi 3:6]]. This contrast highlights the futility of human endeavors apart from God's eternal purposes.
### Summary
In summary, **ʻeshtônâh** `{{H6250}}` provides a focused and potent meditation on the finite nature of human thought. Though appearing only once, its context in [[Psalms 146:4]] is theologically rich, contrasting the perishing plans of humanity with the unending nature of God. It powerfully illustrates that life, consciousness, and the very capacity for **thought** are inextricably linked to the breath of life, ceasing the moment it is withdrawn.
TRV