### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tsûwph**, represented by `{{H6687}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to overflow; (make to over-) flow, swim.** It is a rare term, appearing only **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. Its usage is specific, describing powerful actions related to water, whether as an overwhelming force or a miraculous act of buoyancy.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H6687}}` is used in three distinct contexts. It describes a historical act of God's judgment, where He "made the water of the Red sea to **overflow** them" as the Egyptian army pursued Israel [[Deuteronomy 11:4]]. In a completely different setting, it refers to a miracle performed by the man of God, in which an iron axe head was made to **swim** [[2 Kings 6:6]]. Finally, it is used metaphorically in a cry of despair, where the speaker laments, "Waters **flowed over** mine head; then I said, I am cut off" [[Lamentations 3:54]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide additional context for the meaning of `{{H6687}}`:
* `{{H4325}}` **mayim** (water): This is the element upon which the action of `{{H6687}}` takes place. It is the **water** that is made to overflow or in which an object swims, appearing in two of the same verses ([[Deuteronomy 11:4]], [[Lamentations 3:54]]). It is a foundational element in creation and scripture, such as in the commandment not to make an image of anything "in the **water** under the earth" [[Exodus 20:4]].
* `{{H7291}}` **râdaph** (to run after; pursue): This action is directly connected to the use of `{{H6687}}` in Deuteronomy, where the Red Sea overflowed the Egyptians as they **pursued** the Israelites [[Deuteronomy 11:4]]. The word often carries a hostile intent but can also be used positively, as in the call to "seek peace, and **pursue** it" [[Psalms 34:14]].
* `{{H6686}}` **Tsûwʻâr** (small; Tsuar, an Israelite): This proper name shares a similar phonetic root with `{{H6687}}`. It identifies **Tsuar**, who is mentioned as the father of Nethaneel, a captain of the tribe of Issachar [[Numbers 1:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H6687}}` lies in its powerful and varied applications.
* **Divine Power Over Nature:** The term is used to describe God's direct and supernatural intervention in the world. He can cause waters to **overflow** an army in judgment [[Deuteronomy 11:4]] or cause a heavy object to **swim** in an act of miraculous grace [[2 Kings 6:6]], demonstrating His command over natural law.
* **Metaphor for Utter Despair:** In its figurative use, the word paints a vivid picture of being consumed by suffering. The sensation of waters flowing over one's head is a powerful biblical symbol for being overwhelmed to the point of feeling cut off from life and hope [[Lamentations 3:54]].
* **A Tool of Judgment and Grace:** The word's usage highlights the dual aspects of God's power. The same force of water that can be made to **overflow** for destruction can also be supernaturally manipulated to perform an act of restoration when an axe head is made to **swim**.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{H6687}}` is used sparingly in scripture, it is a potent word that conveys immense force and significance. It spans the literal and the metaphorical, from a historical deluge and a miraculous floating axe head to a poetic expression of being overwhelmed by crisis. Through its few appearances, **tsûwph** vividly illustrates God's absolute power over the natural world, which He wields for both judgment and miraculous deliverance.
TRV