### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tsâmêʼ**, represented by `{{H6771}}`, means **thirsty**, in either a literal or figurative sense. It appears **9 times** in **9 unique verses** and describes a state of intense need or longing. While it can depict simple physical dehydration, it is more often used as a powerful metaphor for spiritual emptiness and the human soul's deep need for divine provision.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H6771}}` captures moments of both profound physical hardship and deep spiritual invitation. It is used literally to describe David and his people in the wilderness, who were "hungry, and weary, and **thirsty**" [[2 Samuel 17:29]]. This physical state can be so severe that one's **soul** `{{H5315}}` faints [[Psalms 107:5]]. Figuratively, the term becomes a universal call, as in the invitation, "Ho, every one that **thirsteth**, come ye to the waters" [[Isaiah 55:1]]. The word also illustrates the nature of unfulfilled desire, like a **thirsty man** who dreams he is drinking, only to **awake** `{{H6974}}` faint and unsatisfied [[Isaiah 29:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the state of being thirsty and its remedy:
* `{{H7457}}` **râʻêb** (hungry): As the direct counterpart to thirst, this word is often used in parallel to describe a state of complete physical need and emptiness [[Psalms 107:5]].
* `{{H4325}}` **mayim** (water): This is the literal solution for one who is **thirsty**, and it also serves as a symbol for the spiritual satisfaction God provides [[Isaiah 44:3]].
* `{{H5889}}` **ʻâyêph** (faint, thirsty, weary): This word describes the condition of exhaustion that results from thirst, emphasizing the physical weakness that accompanies such a need [[2 Samuel 17:29]].
* `{{H8248}}` **shâqâh** (cause to drink): This verb refers to the act of quenching thirst, highlighting the provision of water as an act of mercy and kindness [[Proverbs 25:21]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H6771}}` is tied to the concepts of human dependency and divine grace.
* **A Symbol of Spiritual Need:** Thirst represents a profound spiritual lack that only God can fill. The promise is not just for **water** `{{H4325}}` but for God's **spirit** `{{H7307}}` and **blessing** `{{H1293}}` to be poured out on the one who is **thirsty** [[Isaiah 44:3]].
* **A Measure of Righteousness:** The Bible uses the treatment of the **thirsty** as a moral benchmark. A righteous person gives an enemy **water** `{{H4325}}` to **drink** `{{H8248}}` when he is **thirsty** [[Proverbs 25:21]], whereas a **vile person** `{{H5036}}` will "cause the drink of the **thirsty** to fail" [[Isaiah 32:6]].
* **An Invitation to True Satisfaction:** Scripture contrasts the false satisfaction of self-will, which only adds "drunkenness to **thirst**" [[Deuteronomy 29:19]], with God's open invitation to "come, buy wine and milk without money" [[Isaiah 55:1]]. This invitation is extended to anyone who recognizes their spiritual thirst.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6771}}` moves beyond a mere physical sensation to become a crucial theological concept. It portrays the fundamental human condition of need, whether for physical water in the **wilderness** `{{H4057}}` or for spiritual sustenance from God. The word serves as a constant reminder that while worldly pursuits leave the soul unsatisfied, God offers complete and gracious fulfillment to all who are **thirsty**.
TRV