a primitive root; properly, to tumble down, i.e. settle by awaving motion; sink. Compare צָלַל, צָלַל.
Transliteration:tsâlal
Pronunciation:tsaw-lal'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew verb H6749 (צָלַל, *tsâlal*) is a primitive root whose core meaning denotes a downward motion, specifically "to tumble down," "to settle by a waving motion," or "to sink." The nuance of "waving motion" suggests a gradual yet inexorable descent, often into a liquid medium or a state of collapse. Unlike an abrupt fall, it implies a process of becoming submerged or weighed down. This particular root H6749 is distinct from other homographic roots, such as `{{H6750}}` (related to tinkling or quivering sounds) and `{{H6751}}` (related to overshadowing or being dark), despite sharing the same consonantal form. Its semantic range is tightly focused on the concept of sinking, implying a loss of buoyancy or support, leading to a state of being submerged or overwhelmed.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb H6749 appears only once in the Masoretic Text, making its single occurrence profoundly significant.
* **[[Exodus 15:10]]**: "Thou didst blow with thy wind, the sea covered them: they sank as lead in the mighty waters."
* In the triumphal "Song of the Sea," sung by Moses and the Israelites after their miraculous deliverance, this verse describes the ultimate fate of Pharaoh's pursuing army. The phrase "they sank as lead" (צָלְלוּ כַּעוֹפֶרֶת) vividly portrays the complete and irreversible submergence of the Egyptian chariots and horsemen into the depths of the Red Sea. The comparison to "lead" emphasizes the immense weight and the utter finality of their descent. This is not merely a drowning, but a powerful, divinely orchestrated act of being weighed down and drawn into the abyss. The context is one of divine judgment and the decisive defeat of God's enemies, underscoring the overwhelming power of Yahweh. The singular usage of this verb in such a pivotal narrative moment highlights its specific and potent imagery.
### Related Words & Concepts
While H6749 is unique in its precise usage, its semantic field intersects with several other Hebrew terms related to descent, immersion, and destruction:
* `{{H2883}}` (טָבַע, *ṭābaʿ*): To sink, be immersed, often used for sinking into mire or deep waters, as in [[Psalm 69:2]] where one sinks in deep mire. While similar, H6749 in [[Exodus 15:10]] adds the specific imagery of lead-like heaviness.
* `{{H7857}}` (שָׁקַע, *shāqaʿ*): To sink, subside, often referring to waters receding or land subsiding.
* `{{H2945}}` (טָבַל, *ṭābal*): To dip, immerse, primarily focusing on the action of dipping rather than the state of sinking.
* `{{H6}}` (אָבַד, *ʾābad*): To perish, be lost, often used in a broader sense of destruction or ruin, which is the ultimate outcome of sinking for the Egyptians.
* The distinction from the homographs `{{H6750}}` (to tinkle, quiver) and `{{H6751}}` (to be dark, cast a shadow) is crucial. H6749 occupies a distinct semantic domain focused entirely on physical descent and submergence, setting it apart from auditory or visual phenomena.
### Theological Significance
The singular occurrence of H6749 in [[Exodus 15:10]] is imbued with profound theological significance. It stands as a powerful testament to the sovereignty and retributive justice of God.
1. **Divine Judgment and Power**: The "sinking as lead" is a direct act of divine intervention, demonstrating God's absolute control over creation (the sea) and His ability to utterly defeat those who oppose His will and oppress His people. It signifies the irreversible nature of God's judgment.
2. **Completeness of Defeat**: The imagery of sinking, especially "as lead," conveys a sense of utter finality and complete annihilation. There is no possibility of recovery or escape for Pharaoh's army. This ensures the full deliverance of Israel and underscores the futility of resisting the Almighty.
3. **Salvation and Deliverance**: The inverse of the Egyptians' sinking is Israel's salvation. The same waters that provided a path to freedom for God's people became the instrument of destruction for their enemies, highlighting God's dual capacity as both Deliverer and Judge.
4. **Weight of Sin**: Metaphorically, the "sinking as lead" can evoke the crushing weight of sin and rebellion that ultimately leads to spiritual and physical demise when confronted by divine holiness.
### Summary
The Hebrew verb H6749 (צָלַל, *tsâlal*) means "to tumble down," "to settle by a waving motion," or "to sink." Though appearing only once in the biblical text, its singular use in [[Exodus 15:10]] is exceptionally powerful. It vividly describes the complete and irreversible submergence of Pharaoh's army in the Red Sea, "sinking as lead" under the force of God's wind and the returning waters. Theologically, H6749 serves as a potent symbol of divine judgment, the utter defeat of God's adversaries, and the unassailable power of Yahweh to deliver His people. It underscores the finality of God's justice and the comprehensive nature of His salvation.
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