### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tsêl**, represented by `{{H6738}}`, primarily means **shade**. It appears 49 times across 47 unique verses in the Bible. The term is used to describe both literal **shade** and, in a figurative sense, **defence** or protection.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H6738}}` is used in several key contexts. Literally, it denotes physical **shade**, such as that provided by a gourd [[Jonah 4:6]], an apple tree `{{H8598}}` [[Song of Solomon 2:3]], or a great `{{H3515}}` rock `{{H5553}}` in a weary land [[Isaiah 32:2]]. Figuratively, it signifies divine protection and **defence**. The Psalmist seeks refuge in the **shadow** of God's wings `{{H3671}}` [[Psalms 57:1]], and the LORD `{{H3068}}` is called a **shade** upon the right hand [[Psalms 121:5]]. The term is also used to represent the fleeting nature of human existence, with our days on earth described as a **shadow** with no abiding ([[1 Chronicles 29:15]], [[Job 14:2]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand on the concept of shade and protection:
* `{{H4268}}` **machăçeh** (refuge, shelter): This word for shelter is often used in parallel with `{{H6738}}`. It describes God providing a **refuge** from the storm and a **shadow** from the heat `{{H2721}}` [[Isaiah 25:4]].
* `{{H2620}}` **châçâh** (to flee for protection; to confide in): This verb expresses the act of taking refuge. It is frequently paired with `{{H6738}}`, as in the desire to "put their **trust** under the **shadow** of thy wings" [[Psalms 36:7]].
* `{{H7706}}` **Shadday** (the Almighty): This name for God is directly linked to the idea of divine protection, as believers are described as those who "abide under the **shadow** of the **Almighty**" [[Psalms 91:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6738}}` is significant, highlighting themes of divine refuge, human frailty, and the object of one's trust.
* **Divine Refuge:** The most prominent use is to portray God as a source of protection. To dwell{H3427} under the **shadow** of the Almighty `{{H7706}}` is to be in a place of safety and rest [[Psalms 91:1]]. This imagery is extended to taking refuge under the **shadow** of His wings `{{H3671}}` [[Psalms 57:1]] or His hand [[Isaiah 49:2]].
* **Human Frailty:** In contrast to God's enduring protection, human life is frequently compared to a **shadow**. It is fleeting and without substance, as seen in descriptions of man's days on earth being "as a **shadow**" ([[1 Chronicles 29:15]], [[Job 8:9]]).
* **False Defence:** The word is also used to warn against misplaced trust. Relying on the **shadow** of Egypt, for instance, is shown to result in shame `{{H3639}}` and confusion [[Isaiah 30:3]], demonstrating that only the Lord is a true and reliable **defence** [[Numbers 14:9]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6738}}` **tsêl** extends from the simple, physical concept of **shade** to the profound theological idea of divine **defence**. It serves as a powerful metaphor for God's protective presence, a place of refuge from danger and heat `{{H2721}}` [[Isaiah 25:4]]. At the same time, it illustrates the transient nature of human life, which passes like a **shadow** [[Psalms 144:4]]. The word thus encapsulates a core biblical truth: while human life and earthly powers are fleeting and unreliable, the protection found in the **shadow** of the Almighty `{{H7706}}` is an enduring and secure dwelling place [[Psalms 91:1]].