a primitive root; to remove (intransitive or transitive) figuratively, to grow old; specifically, to transcribe; copy out, leave off, become (wax) old, remove.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻâthaq**, represented by `{{H6275}}`, is a primitive root with a range of meanings including **to remove**, **to grow old**, and **to transcribe** or **copy out**. It appears **9 times** in **9 unique verses**, illustrating its use in both literal and figurative contexts.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H6275}}` is used to describe physical movement and change. It depicts patriarchal figures like Abram and Isaac as they **removed** from one place to another to pitch a tent `{{H168}}` or dig `{{H2658}}` a well `{{H875}}` ([[Genesis 12:8]], [[Genesis 26:22]]). The word also conveys immense power, as God is the one who **removeth** the mountains `{{H2022}}` [[Job 9:5]]. Figuratively, it describes the process of aging, where the wicked `{{H7563}}` **become old** [[Job 21:7]] or an eye `{{H5869}}` **waxeth old** from grief `{{H3708}}` [[Psalms 6:7]]. In a unique application, it signifies the act of transcribing, as when the men of Hezekiah **copied out** the proverbs `{{H4912}}` of Solomon [[Proverbs 25:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which **ʻâthaq** is used:
* `{{H2015}}` **hâphak** (to turn about or over): This word is used alongside `{{H6275}}` to describe God's power over creation, where he **removeth** the mountains and **overturneth** them in his anger `{{H639}}` [[Job 9:5]].
* `{{H5034}}` **nâbêl** (to wilt; generally, to fall away, fail, faint): This term connects to the idea of decay and removal. It appears in the description of a mountain `{{H2022}}` that, in falling `{{H5307}}`, **cometh to nought** while the rock is **removed** [[Job 14:18]].
* `{{H4912}}` **mâshâl** (proverb): This word is directly associated with the intellectual act of transcription. The men of Hezekiah **copied out** `{{H6275}}` the **proverbs** of Solomon, preserving wisdom [[Proverbs 25:1]].
### Theological Significance
The varied uses of `{{H6275}}` carry significant thematic weight:
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The word is used to express God's ultimate power over the most permanent aspects of creation. His ability to **remove** mountains `{{H2022}}` demonstrates that nothing is fixed or secure apart from His will [[Job 9:5]].
* **Human Progression and Frailty:** `{{H6275}}` marks the passage of time, whether in the wicked who **become old** and mighty `{{H1396}}` in power `{{H2428}}` [[Job 21:7]] or in the grief-stricken whose eye `{{H5869}}` **waxeth old** [[Psalms 6:7]]. This points to the inevitable processes of life and decay.
* **Preservation of Divine Word:** The specific use of the word for "to **copy out**" [[Proverbs 25:1]] underscores the value placed on the careful transcription and continuation of sacred texts and proverbs `{{H4912}}`. It signifies a deliberate act of moving wisdom from one generation to the next.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6275}}` is a versatile term that encompasses concepts of movement, aging, and intellectual transfer. From the literal act of Abram **removing** his tent `{{H168}}` to the figurative decay of the human body and the scholarly act of **copying out** proverbs, **ʻâthaq** illustrates how a single root can apply to the physical world, the human condition, and the preservation of divine wisdom.
TRV