### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tsârach**, represented by `{{H6873}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to be clear (in tone, i.e. shrill), i.e. to whoop; cry, roar**. Though it appears only **2 times** in **2 unique verses**, its usage in scripture signifies a powerful and intense vocal expression, ranging from a bitter cry to a victorious roar.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical occurrences, `{{H6873}}` is used in two distinct yet powerful prophetic contexts. In Zephaniah, it describes a cry of anguish during a time of judgment, stating that on the great day of the LORD, "the **mighty man** shall **cry** there **bitterly**" [[Zephaniah 1:14]]. Conversely, in Isaiah, the word is used to describe God's own triumphant war cry. The prophet declares that the **LORD** will go forth as a mighty man of war, and "he shall **cry**, yea, **roar**; he shall **prevail** against his **enemies**" [[Isaiah 42:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illuminate the context surrounding this powerful cry:
* `{{H1368}}` **gibbôwr** (powerful; by implication, warrior, tyrant): This word for "mighty man" is used in both instances of `{{H6873}}`, referring to the man crying in bitter judgment [[Zephaniah 1:14]] and to the LORD himself as a divine warrior [[Isaiah 42:13]].
* `{{H7321}}` **rûwaʻ** (to shout (for alarm or joy)): This word is used in direct parallel to `{{H6873}}` in [[Isaiah 42:13]], where the LORD "shall **cry**, yea, **roar**," emphasizing the intensity and nature of the sound as a war shout.
* `{{H1396}}` **gâbar** (to be strong; by implication, to prevail): This word describes the outcome of the LORD's roar in [[Isaiah 42:13]], linking the divine cry directly to the assurance that He will **prevail** over His adversaries.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H6873}}` is tied to its use in moments of ultimate consequence.
* **The Cry of Judgment:** The word is associated with the great **day** of the **LORD**, a time of reckoning where even the **mighty man** will utter a **bitterly** shrill cry, signifying profound distress [[Zephaniah 1:14]].
* **The Divine War Cry:** In a dramatic shift, the cry is attributed to the **LORD** Himself, who goes forth as a warrior. His **roar** is a sign of His power as He prepares to execute judgment and stir up **jealousy** against His foes [[Isaiah 42:13]].
* **A Sound of Prevailing Power:** The roar of the LORD is not an expression of anguish but of strength. It is the sound that precedes victory, as the text confirms He "shall **prevail** against his **enemies**," demonstrating that His cry is one of absolute dominance and authority [[Isaiah 42:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6873}}` is a rare but impactful term for a shrill cry or roar. It powerfully conveys two sides of divine judgment: the bitter cry of humanity facing the consequences of the day of the LORD, and the mighty, prevailing war cry of God Himself as a warrior who triumphs over all enemies. The word captures the intensity of these definitive biblical moments.
TRV