### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tsᵉdîyâh**, represented by `{{H6660}}`, denotes a **design** or **lying in wait**. It is a specific term that appears just **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, both within the same legal context. Its meaning is directly tied to the concept of premeditation and intent.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H6660}}` is used exclusively in the book of Numbers to establish the legal distinction between murder and accidental death. Its presence signifies a planned attack, as when someone hurls something at another "by **laying of wait**" [[Numbers 35:20]], an act explicitly linked to "hatred" `{{H8135}}` and resulting in death `{{H4191}}`. Conversely, its absence is used to define an unintentional act, such as when one might have "cast upon him any thing **without laying of wait**" [[Numbers 35:22]], an event described as sudden and without enmity.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the legal and moral context of `{{H6660}}`:
* `{{H8135}}` **sinʼâh** (hate; [phrase] exceedingly, hate(-ful, -red)): This word provides the motive for the planned attack. In the law, to "thrust him of **hatred**" is directly connected to the act of lying in wait [[Numbers 35:20]].
* `{{H342}}` **ʼêybâh** (hostility; emnity, hatred): This term is used to show the lack of malicious intent. An action performed "without **enmity**" is also described as being "without laying of wait" [[Numbers 35:22]].
* `{{H1920}}` **hâdaph** (to push away or down; cast away (out), drive, expel, thrust (away)): This represents the physical action that can be either premeditated or accidental. An intentional killing involves a **thrust** of hatred, while an accidental one is a **thrust** done suddenly ([[Numbers 35:20]], [[Numbers 35:22]]).
* `{{H6621}}` **pethaʻ** (a wink, i.e. moment... suddenly): This word is used to contrast with the planning implied by `{{H6660}}`. An act is not considered premeditated if it happens **suddenly** and without enmity [[Numbers 35:22]].
### Theological Significance
The conceptual weight of `{{H6660}}` is primarily legal and moral, establishing a clear line regarding culpability.
* **Establishing Premeditation:** The core function of "lying in wait" is to serve as the legal evidence of a planned act. Its presence, combined with a motive like "hatred" `{{H8135}}`, shifts the classification of a killing from accidental to intentional [[Numbers 35:20]].
* **Defining Culpability:** The Bible uses `{{H6660}}` to underscore that intent is as important as the action itself. The distinction between acting *with* or *without* "laying of wait" determines the moral and legal standing of the perpetrator.
* **Motive and Consequence:** The term connects an internal state of hostility to a fatal outcome. An act of thrusting `{{H1920}}` or hurling `{{H7993}}` is judged differently based on whether it was preceded by the "design" of `{{H6660}}`.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6660}}` is a highly specific but critical term in biblical law. Though used only twice, **tsᵉdîyâh** provides the definitive marker for premeditation. It distinguishes a malicious, planned "design" from a sudden, accidental event, thereby forming a cornerstone for the principles of justice and intent outlined in the book of Numbers. It demonstrates that from a biblical perspective, the thoughts and plans behind an action are central to its moral evaluation.
TRV