### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tsᵉphûwaʻ**, represented by `{{H6832}}`, means **dung** or excrement. It is derived from a root word signifying something protruded. This specific term is exceptionally rare, appearing 2 times within a single verse in the entire biblical text.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H6832}}` is found in a dramatic prophetic sign in Ezekiel. In this passage, God `gives` `{{H5414}}` the prophet cow's **dung** to be used as fuel for preparing his **bread** `{{H3899}}`. This was provided as a substitute for man's **dung** `{{H1561}}`, making it a key component in a symbolic act of hardship and judgment [[Ezekiel 4:15]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the singular occurrence of **tsᵉphûwaʻ**:
* `{{H1561}}` **gêlel** (dung): This is another word for **dung** and is used in direct contrast to `{{H6832}}` in its only appearance. In the prophetic sign, God offers cow's dung instead of man's **dung** [[Ezekiel 4:15]].
* `{{H1241}}` **bâqâr** (cow): This word identifies the source of the `{{H6832}}` dung. It refers to beef cattle and is often mentioned in contexts of wealth, sacrifice, and sustenance [[Genesis 24:35]].
* `{{H3899}}` **lechem** (bread): The **dung** was to be used as fuel to prepare **bread**, linking this base substance to the fundamental act of sustenance. The word for **bread** often symbolizes God's provision [[Exodus 23:25]].
* `{{H120}}` **'âdâm** (man): The dung from a cow was given as a substitute for the **dung** of **man**, highlighting a specific concession from God to the prophet during the symbolic act [[Ezekiel 4:15]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6832}}` is tied entirely to its unique context in Ezekiel's prophecy.
* **Prophetic Symbolism:** The word is not used incidentally but as the central element in a command from God. He instructs the prophet to `prepare` `{{H6213}}` his food with it, using a tangible, base object to communicate a spiritual message about impending desolation [[Ezekiel 4:15]].
* **Divine Concession:** The appearance of cow's **dung** `{{H6832}}` is a direct result of God's interaction with the prophet. It is `given` `{{H5414}}` as an alternative to the originally commanded human **dung** `{{H1561}}`, showing a measure of mercy within a harsh sign.
* **Sign of Hardship:** Using **dung** as fuel for baking **bread** `{{H3899}}` graphically illustrates the extreme conditions of siege and exile that the people would face, where normal means of life would be unavailable.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6832}}` is a highly specific and rare term for **dung**. Its importance is not in its frequency but in its powerful, singular role within a prophetic vision. The word serves as a stark and unforgettable symbol of judgment, divine communication, and the severe hardships that would befall Israel, demonstrating how even the most mundane of words can carry profound theological significance in scripture.
TRV