### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **pûwq**, represented by `{{H6328}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to waver; stumble, move**. Despite its simple definition, this term carries significant weight in its contexts. It appears only **2 times** across **2 unique verses**, with each instance illustrating a different facet of instability, one physical and one moral.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H6328}}` draws a sharp contrast between inanimate objects and human fallibility. In Jeremiah, it is used to describe the desired state of a man-made idol, which is fastened with nails and hammers so that it does not **move** [[Jeremiah 10:4]]. Conversely, in Isaiah, the word describes the failure of religious leaders. The priest and prophet, having erred through strong drink, **stumble** in judgment [[Isaiah 28:7]]. This figurative use points to a critical failure in discernment and moral stability.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the context of [[Isaiah 28:7]] illuminate the concept of stumbling:
* `{{H7686}}` **shâgâh** (to stray, mistake, err): This word appears multiple times in the same verse as `{{H6328}}`, emphasizing that the stumbling is a result of having **erred** through wine and strong drink [[Isaiah 28:7]]. It points to a moral or mental mistake leading to physical or judicial unsteadiness.
* `{{H7941}}` **shêkâr** (an intoxicant, strong drink): This is identified as the direct cause of the erring and stumbling. The passage states that leaders are "out of the way through **strong drink**" [[Isaiah 28:7]], making it the agent of their compromised judgment.
* `{{H8582}}` **tâʻâh** (to vacillate, reel or stray): Also used in [[Isaiah 28:7]], this term describes how the leaders are "out of the way." It reinforces the idea of deviation from a true or stable path, thematically linking to the concept of wavering found in `{{H6328}}`.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6328}}` is concentrated in its illustration of compromised spiritual leadership.
* **Physical vs. Moral Stability:** The word contrasts the forced stability of a lifeless idol [[Jeremiah 10:4]] with the moral instability of God's chosen servants. While an idol can be secured so it cannot **move**, a human leader can **stumble** in judgment due to poor choices.
* **Failure in Judgment:** The use of `{{H6328}}` in [[Isaiah 28:7]] is specifically tied to a breakdown in "judgment." This is not a mere physical trip but a critical failure in the duties of a priest or prophet, whose role is to provide clear, divinely-guided decisions.
* **The Cause of Compromise:** The passage explicitly links the stumbling to indulgence in "strong drink" `{{H7941}}`. This creates a direct theological warning about how physical excess can lead directly to spiritual and judicial failure, causing leaders to err in their sacred responsibilities.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6328}}` is a rare but potent word that encapsulates the idea of instability. Whether describing the physical immobility of a false god or the profound moral failure of a compromised leader, **pûwq** highlights a deviation from a firm and true standing. Its primary lesson, drawn from Isaiah, is a stark reminder of how personal conduct can directly impact one's ability to execute judgment, serving as a warning against the causes of spiritual stumbling.
TRV