a primitive root; to tip over (for the purpose of spilling or pouring out), i.e. (figuratively) depopulate; by implication, to imprison or conquer; (reflexive) to lie down (for coitus); captive exile, travelling, (cause to) wander(-er).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tsâʻâh**, represented by `{{H6808}}`, is a primitive root with a range of meanings connected to movement and displacement. Its definitions include to tip over for pouring, to depopulate, to imprison, and to wander, travel, or be a captive exile. It appears **5 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible, showing its specific but impactful usage.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical applications, `{{H6808}}` conveys different types of movement, from sinful straying to majestic travel. In Jeremiah, it is used to describe Israel **wanderest**, playing the harlot on every high hill after breaking their covenant with God [[Jeremiah 2:20]]. It is also used by God to describe a coming judgment, where He will send **wanderers** to cause Moab to **wander** and be emptied [[Jeremiah 48:12]]. In a different context, the term describes "the **captive exile**" who longs to be set free [[Isaiah 51:14]]. Conversely, it can depict a glorious figure **travelling** in the greatness of his strength [[Isaiah 63:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which `{{H6808}}` is used:
* `{{H4116}}` **mâhar** (to hurry): This word is used alongside "captive exile" to show the urgency of the desire for freedom, stating that the exile **hasteneth** to be loosed [[Isaiah 51:14]].
* `{{H6605}}` **pâthach** (to open wide): This word describes the goal of the captive exile, who hastens so that he may be **loosed** from his confinement and avoid death in the pit [[Isaiah 51:14]].
* `{{H7971}}` **shâlach** (to send away, for, or out): This verb highlights the divine agency behind the displacement in [[Jeremiah 48:12]], where God declares, "I will **send** unto him wanderers."
* `{{H7324}}` **rûwq** (to pour out, empty): In the judgment against Moab, the action of the wanderers `{{H6808}}` is immediately followed by the promise that they "shall **empty** his vessels," linking the concept of wandering to being depopulated [[Jeremiah 48:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6808}}` is expressed through its varied applications, highlighting themes of judgment, captivity, and power.
* **Consequence of Sin:** In [[Jeremiah 2:20]], **wandering** is directly linked to idolatry and breaking God's covenant, portraying it as a form of spiritual unfaithfulness.
* **Divine Judgment:** The word is used to describe an active judgment from God. In [[Jeremiah 48:12]], God sends "wanderers" to enact displacement upon Moab, showing that exile can be a divine punishment.
* **The Plight of the Exile:** The term "captive exile" `{{H6808}}` in [[Isaiah 51:14]] encapsulates a state of suffering and imprisonment, defining a person in desperate need of salvation and freedom.
* **Glorious Progression:** In contrast, the use of **travelling** in [[Isaiah 63:1]] associates the word with a display of divine power and majesty, demonstrating that not all movement described by `{{H6808}}` is negative.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6808}}` is a dynamic word whose meaning is shaped by its context. It can signify the aimless and sinful straying of God's people, the forced displacement of a nation under judgment, or the specific condition of a captive exile yearning for release. At the same time, it can be used to describe powerful and purposeful movement, illustrating a concept that ranges from the disgrace of harlotry to the glory of a mighty savior.
TRV