### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tsâmath**, represented by `{{H6789}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to extirpate**. It appears **15 times** across **14 unique verses** in the Bible. Its core meaning involves complete removal, whether literally or figuratively, and is translated as **consume, cut off, destroy,** or **vanish**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H6789}}` is frequently used to describe the definitive and final removal of wickedness and opposition. David declares his intent to **destroy** all the wicked in the land [[Psalms 101:8]] and to **cut off** those who slander [[Psalms 101:5]]. The psalmist also calls on God to **cut off** his enemies in His truth [[Psalms 54:5]]. The term is also used in contexts of personal suffering, such as the lament that enemies have **cut off** the speaker's life in a dungeon [[Lamentations 3:53]] or that God's terrors have **cut me off** [[Psalms 88:16]]. Figuratively, it can describe things that **vanish** completely, like streams that disappear in the heat [[Job 6:17]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of destruction and its targets:
* `{{H341}}` **ʼôyêb** (enemy, foe): This term identifies the adversary who is the target of destruction. It is often the object of the verb `{{H6789}}`, as seen in the plea to "cut off mine **enemies**" [[Psalms 143:12]] and the declaration of victory over those who are hated [[2 Samuel 22:41]].
* `{{H7563}}` **râshâʻ** (wicked man): This describes those who are morally wrong and are subject to judgment. The psalmist expresses a commitment to **destroy** all the **wicked** of the land, linking the action of `{{H6789}}` directly to the moral state of the person [[Psalms 101:8]].
* `{{H3772}}` **kârath** (to cut off, destroy): This word is used in parallel with `{{H6789}}` to intensify the idea of complete eradication. In [[Psalms 101:8]], the goal is to **destroy** (tsâmath) the wicked so that all wicked doers may be **cut off** (kârath) from the city of the LORD.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6789}}` centers on the finality of divine judgment and the complete removal of opposition to God.
* **Divine Judgment:** The word is used to describe God's definitive action against those who turn away from Him. He is the one who has **destroyed** all who are unfaithful [[Psalms 73:27]] and who will **cut off** the wicked in their own iniquity [[Psalms 94:23]]. This highlights God's sovereignty in executing justice.
* **Purging Evil:** The term is employed by God's servant, the king, to express his commitment to establishing righteousness. This involves actively **destroying** the wicked from the land and **cutting off** slanderers to purify the community and the city of the LORD ([[Psalms 101:8]], [[Psalms 101:5]]).
* **A Cry for Vindication:** In the Psalms, `{{H6789}}` is often part of a plea for God to intervene on behalf of the afflicted. The psalmist asks God to **cut off** his enemies out of His mercy, trusting that God will act for His servant [[Psalms 143:12]]. This shows a reliance on God's truth and faithfulness to resolve injustice.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6789}}` **tsâmath** is a powerful verb denoting utter destruction and finality. It is used to describe God's judgment against the wicked, the king's duty to purge evil from the land, and the personal anguish of one who feels their life has been **cut off**. From the permanent removal of enemies to the consuming fire of zeal, the word consistently conveys a sense of complete and irreversible extirpation, serving as a stark reminder of the consequences of wickedness and the finality of God's justice.
TRV