### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tsûwlâh**, represented by `{{H6683}}`, is derived from a root meaning to sink and denotes an **abyss (of the sea)** or the **deep**. This specific term is quite rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** within the biblical text, highlighting its specialized use.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{H6683}}` is in [[Isaiah 44:27]], where it personifies the depths of the sea. In this verse, God speaks directly to **the deep**, commanding it to "Be dry." This demonstrates God's absolute authority over the most formidable and chaotic elements of creation. The context is a declaration of divine power, where God proclaims His ability to alter the very nature of the world, drying up not only **the deep** but also its rivers.
### Related Words & Concepts
The verse where `{{H6683}}` appears contains several key related words that frame its meaning:
* `{{H559}}` **ʼâmar** (saith): A primitive root meaning **to say (used with great latitude)**. Its use here emphasizes that God's power is enacted through His spoken word alone.
* `{{H2717}}` **chârab** (Be dry): This root means **to parch (through drought) i.e. (by analogy,) to desolate, destroy, kill**. It conveys a powerful act of desolation, as seen when God dries up the sea at His rebuke [[Isaiah 50:2]].
* `{{H3001}}` **yâbêsh** (dry up): This word also means **to dry up (as water) or wither (as herbage)**. It is used in parallel with `{{H2717}}` to reinforce the totality of the drying action on the rivers [[Nahum 1:4]].
* `{{H5104}}` **nâhâr** (rivers): This term for a **stream (including the sea; expectation the Nile, Euphrates, etc.)** represents the great bodies of water that are subject to God's command to dry up.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H6683}}` is concentrated in its sole appearance, which illustrates profound truths about God's nature.
* **Sovereignty over Chaos:** "The deep" often represents primordial chaos or an uncontrollable force. By commanding `{{H6683}}` to be dry, God asserts His absolute sovereignty over these forces.
* **Power of the Divine Word:** The action is initiated by God simply speaking ("That saith{H559}"). This demonstrates that His word is sufficient to alter reality, requiring no other instrument of power.
* **Redemptive Desolation:** God's power to dry up `{{H2717}}` the deep is a recurring theme connected to His acts of salvation, such as when He rebuked the Red sea and it "was dried up" `{{H2717}}` to lead His people through [[Psalms 106:9]]. The act of drying the abyss is one of making a way for His divine purpose.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{H6683}}` is used only once, its impact is significant. As **tsûwlâh**, or "the deep," it serves as a powerful symbol of the vast, untamable aspects of creation. Its context in [[Isaiah 44:27]] vividly portrays a God whose authority is so complete that even the abyss of the sea obeys His spoken command, powerfully illustrating His role as the supreme Creator and sovereign Lord over all.
TRV