### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tsᵉlûwl**, represented by `{{H6742}}`, means a (round or flattened) **cake**. It is derived from a root word signifying rolling. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **2 times** within a single, unique verse in the entire Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H6742}}` is in the narrative of Gideon `{{H1439}}` as he prepared to face the Midianites `{{H4080}}`. In a pivotal moment, Gideon overhears a man `{{H376}}` telling his companion `{{H7453}}` about a dream `{{H2472}}` he had. The man describes seeing a **cake** of barley `{{H8184}}` bread `{{H3899}}` that tumbled `{{H2015}}` into the Midianite host `{{H4264}}`. This cake then struck a tent `{{H168}}`, smote `{{H5221}}` it, and overturned `{{H2015}}` it so completely that the tent lay flat `{{H5307}}` [[Judges 7:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of this unique word is enriched by several related terms from the narrative:
* `{{H1439}}` **Gidʻôwn** (Gideon): A feller or warrior, this is the Israelite leader who was emboldened upon hearing the dream about the cake [[Judges 7:15]].
* `{{H2472}}` **chălôwm** (dream): This is the medium through which the prophecy of the cake is delivered, serving as a sign from God [[Judges 7:13]]. Scripture shows God sometimes speaks through a **dream** [[Numbers 12:6]].
* `{{H4080}}` **Midyân** (Midian): The people and army whose camp `{{H4264}}` the cake of barley bread `{{H3899}}` tumbles into, symbolizing their impending defeat [[Judges 7:13]].
* `{{H168}}` **ʼôhel** (tent): This word for a dwelling or home is what the cake strikes and destroys, representing the power of Gideon's force against the Midianite army [[Judges 7:13]]. The same word is also used for the LORD's tabernacle [[Psalms 15:1]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative weight of `{{H6742}}` is significant despite its single use. It serves as a powerful symbol with theological implications.
* **Humility as a Divine Weapon:** The image of a simple **cake** of barley bread, a common food `{{H8184}}`, destroying a military tent `{{H168}}` illustrates a core biblical theme. God accomplishes his purposes not through overwhelming might, but through humble and seemingly insignificant means. This reflects God's instruction to Gideon to reduce his army, so that Israel could not claim to have saved itself by its own hand [[Judges 7:2]].
* **A Prophetic Sign:** The cake's appearance in a dream confirms God's promise to Gideon. Upon hearing the interpretation, Gideon immediately worships and announces that the LORD has delivered the host of Midian into Israel's hand [[Judges 7:15]]. The **cake** acts as the final confirmation of God's will.
* **An Unstoppable Force:** The description of the cake's actions—tumbling `{{H2015}}`, smiting `{{H5221}}`, and overturning `{{H2015}}`—portrays it as an irresistible force. The simple **cake** symbolizes the divinely empowered and unstoppable nature of Gideon's mission against the enemies of Israel.
### Summary
In summary, **tsᵉlûwl** `{{H6742}}` is more than just a word for **cake**. Locked within its single biblical appearance is the entire narrative of God's power being perfected in weakness. It serves as the central symbol in a prophetic dream, representing the humble instrument God would use to achieve a great victory and demonstrating that triumph comes from the LORD, not from the strength of man.
TRV