### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tsᵉphardêaʻ**, represented by `{{H6854}}`, is the term for a **frog**. Derived from a term for a "marsh-leaper," it appears **13 times** in **13 unique verses**. Its usage is exclusively tied to the narrative of the second plague brought upon Egypt, where it serves as an instrument of divine judgment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H6854}}` is central to the account of the plagues. God threatens to "smite all thy borders with **frogs**" if Pharaoh refuses to let Israel go [[Exodus 8:2]]. The plague's execution is dramatic: Aaron stretches his hand over the waters of Egypt, and **frogs** come up and cover the land [[Exodus 8:6]]. The infestation is total, with the **frogs** invading every part of Egyptian life, including houses, bedchambers, and ovens [[Exodus 8:3]]. The plague is so potent that Pharaoh eventually calls for Moses to "Intreat the LORD, that he may take away the **frogs** from me" [[Exodus 8:8]]. The event is later recalled in the Psalms as a powerful demonstration of God's work ([[Psalms 78:45]], [[Psalms 105:30]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the plague of frogs and its destructive nature:
* `{{H7843}}` **shâchath** (to decay, i.e. (causatively) ruin (literally or figuratively);... destroy): This verb describes the effect of the frogs, which were sent to **destroy** the Egyptians, placing them in the same category as other devastating plagues [[Psalms 78:45]].
* `{{H6157}}` **ʻârôb** (divers sorts of flies, swarm): The plague of **frogs** is mentioned in direct parallel with the plague of flies, another overwhelming infestation sent by God against Egypt [[Psalms 78:45]].
* `{{H398}}` **ʼâkal** (to eat... consume, devour): While the flies are said to have **devoured** the Egyptians, the frogs are described in the same verse as having destroyed them, highlighting the distinct but equally ruinous nature of each plague [[Psalms 78:45]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6854}}` is found in its role within the Exodus narrative.
* **Instrument of Judgment:** The common **frog** is transformed into a tool of God's judgment, demonstrating His sovereignty over both nature and the nation of Egypt [[Exodus 8:2]].
* **Pervasive Power:** The plague's ability to infiltrate every space, from the river to the king's chambers, symbolizes that no part of the defiant kingdom is shielded from God's reach ([[Psalms 105:30]], [[Exodus 8:3]]).
* **Proof of Divine Authority:** God commands Moses and Aaron to bring forth the **frogs** [[Exodus 8:5]]. Moses' subsequent successful intercession to have the LORD remove them demonstrates that God alone holds ultimate power over the plague, a power Pharaoh and his magicians lack [[Exodus 8:12-13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6854}}` is not merely a biological term. In scripture, the **frog** functions as a potent symbol of God's overwhelming power against a defiant ruler. The story of the plague illustrates how God can utilize any part of His creation, even a humble "marsh-leaper," to execute His divine will and demonstrate His authority over all the earth.
TRV