### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼêphaʻ**, represented by `{{H659}}`, means **of nought**. Its root likely relates to the concept of breathing, giving it the sense of something as insubstantial as a breath, or nothing. This term is extremely rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, where it is used to signify complete and utter worthlessness.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H659}}` is in [[Isaiah 41:24]], within a divine pronouncement. The verse declares, "Behold, ye are of nothing, and your work of **nought**." In this context, the word is used to describe the futility and emptiness of idols or those who trust in them. It is part of a powerful declaration that their efforts and existence are fundamentally valueless and without substance, a theme of divine judgment against false worship.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its single context in [[Isaiah 41:24]] illuminate its meaning:
* `{{H369}}` **ʼayin** (a non-entity; nothing): This word appears in the same verse, emphasizing the same concept of non-existence. It is frequently used as a negative particle, as in [[Genesis 2:5]], which states "there was **not** a man to till the ground."
* `{{H6467}}` **pôʻal** (an act or work): This term is the subject of what is "of nought." While idols produce a **work** that is worthless [[Isaiah 41:24]], God's **work** is described as perfect [[Deuteronomy 32:4]].
* `{{H8441}}` **tôwʻêbah** (abomination): This describes the consequence of choosing what is worthless. The verse states that one who chooses what is "of nought" is an **abomination**, a term used for morally disgusting things like a "false balance" [[Proverbs 11:1]].
* `{{H977}}` **bâchar** (to choose): The act of choosing is central to the condemnation in [[Isaiah 41:24]]. The verse condemns one that **chooseth** worthless things, contrasting with the divine command to "**choose** life" [[Deuteronomy 30:19]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H659}}` is concentrated in its single, impactful use.
* **The Emptiness of Idolatry:** The word is used to deliver a verdict on the nature of idols and their works. By describing their work as "of **nought**," the text asserts that all worship and effort directed away from God is ultimately futile and void of reality.
* **Divine Standard of Value:** Its use in [[Isaiah 41:24]] establishes a clear contrast between the works of God and the works of that which is not God. Anything that opposes or stands apart from God is rendered as nothing, having no intrinsic worth or power.
* **Consequence of Choice:** The passage directly links the worthlessness of an object with the moral state of the person who chooses it. To **choose** `{{H977}}` what is "of **nought**" `{{H659}}` makes one an **abomination** `{{H8441}}`, highlighting the profound spiritual significance of allegiance.
### Summary
In summary, though `{{H659}}` **ʼêphaʻ** appears only once, its meaning is sharp and decisive. It functions as a term of absolute negation, used in [[Isaiah 41:24]] to declare the utter futility of idols and their works. This single occurrence powerfully conveys a core biblical principle: that which is not of God is ultimately nothing, and the choice to align with such emptiness is an abomination.
TRV