### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tsaʻad**, represented by `{{H6806}}`, refers to **a pace or regular step**. Derived from the primitive root `{{H6805}}`, it signifies a single, deliberate movement. It appears **14 times** across **14 unique verses** in the Bible, often used figuratively to represent the individual actions and choices that make up a person's life journey.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical writings, `{{H6806}}` is used to illustrate the relationship between human will and divine sovereignty. In both [[Proverbs 16:9]] and [[Jeremiah 10:23]], the text contrasts man's devising of his "way" with the Lord's direction of his **steps**. This highlights that while humans make plans, God oversees the individual actions. The word is also used to describe God's omniscience, as Job asks, "Doth not he see my ways, and count all my **steps**?" [[Job 31:4]], a theme echoed in [[Job 34:21]]. In a more literal sense, it marks a measure of distance, as when the ark of the Lord was carried for six **paces** before a sacrifice was made [[2 Samuel 6:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of a person's walk or journey:
* `{{H6805}}` **tsâʻad** (to pace, march): This is the primitive root of `{{H6806}}`. The direct connection is seen in the account of the ark of the Lord, where those who bore it had **gone** `{{H6805}}` six **paces** `{{H6806}}`, linking the action of marching with the measurement of steps [[2 Samuel 6:13]].
* `{{H1870}}` **derek** (a road, a course of life): This word often appears alongside `{{H6806}}` to denote the broader path of life, while **tsaʻad** represents the individual steps taken on that path. A man's heart devises his **way** `{{H1870}}`, but the Lord directs his **steps** `{{H6806}}` [[Proverbs 16:9]].
* `{{H3559}}` **kûwn** (to direct, establish, fix): This verb is used to describe God's action upon a person's steps. Scripture states that it is not in man to **direct** `{{H3559}}` his own steps, but that this authority belongs to the Lord [[Jeremiah 10:23]].
* `{{H7337}}` **râchab** (to broaden, make large): This word describes God's provision of a stable path. The psalmist declares, "Thou hast **enlarged** `{{H7337}}` my **steps** `{{H6806}}` under me, that my feet did not slip" [[Psalms 18:36]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H6806}}` is centered on the governance of a person's life and choices.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The word consistently reinforces the theme that God ultimately directs the course of a person's life. While a man plans his way, the Lord directs his individual **steps**, establishing His ultimate control over outcomes ([[Proverbs 16:9]], [[Jeremiah 10:23]]).
* **Moral Accountability:** The concept of God numbering and seeing every **step** emphasizes that all human actions are observed and accounted for. This divine scrutiny applies to one's entire life, as Job notes that God sees all his goings ([[Job 31:4]], [[Job 34:21]]).
* **Consequences of a Path:** A person's **steps** determine their destination. The **steps** of the wicked "take hold on hell" [[Proverbs 5:5]], while the **steps** of the righteous are enlarged and made secure by God, keeping their feet from slipping [[2 Samuel 22:37]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6806}}` moves beyond its literal definition of a **pace** or **step** to become a powerful metaphor for life's journey. It captures the individual choices and actions that compose a person's broader "way." The word serves as a cornerstone for understanding the dynamic between human responsibility and divine direction, reminding the reader that while we walk, it is God who numbers our **steps**, secures our footing, and ultimately directs our path.
TRV