### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tsirʻâh**, represented by `{{H6880}}`, is the term for **hornet**. It is derived from a root meaning to sting. This word appears **3 times** in **3 unique verses**, where it consistently refers to an instrument of God's power used to displace the enemies of Israel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H6880}}` is presented as a divine agent sent by God to aid the Israelites in their conquest of the promised land. God promises, "I will send **hornets** before thee, which shall drive out the Hivite, the Canaanite, and the Hittite" [[Exodus 23:28]]. This promise is confirmed in Joshua's farewell address, where he reminds the people that God "sent the **hornet** before you, which drave them out" [[Joshua 24:12]], specifically noting it was not by their own sword or bow. The hornet is also a tool to ensure total victory, sent until those who are left and hide are destroyed [[Deuteronomy 7:20]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the function of the hornet in these passages:
* `{{H7971}}` **shâlach** (to send away, for, or out): This word is used in all three occurrences of `{{H6880}}` to describe God's action of sending the hornet ([[Exodus 23:28]], [[Deuteronomy 7:20]], [[Joshua 24:12]]). It signifies a deliberate appointment or dispatching to accomplish a purpose.
* `{{H1644}}` **gârash** (to drive out from a possession): This verb describes the result of the hornet's attack, which is to "drive out" or expel the inhabitants of the land ([[Exodus 23:28]], [[Joshua 24:12]]).
* `{{H6}}` **ʼâbad** (to perish (causative, destroy)): In [[Deuteronomy 7:20]], this word is used to describe the ultimate fate of those who hide from the Israelites, indicating the hornet's role in ensuring their complete destruction.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6880}}` is significant despite its rare usage. It highlights several key concepts about God's methods and power.
* **Divine Intervention:** The hornet serves as a clear sign of God's direct involvement in the affairs of Israel. God is the one who sends `{{H7971}}` this plague to achieve His will.
* **Conquest by God's Hand:** The use of the hornet explicitly diminishes the role of Israel's military might. Victory is attributed to God's supernatural action, "not with thy sword, nor with thy bow" [[Joshua 24:12]].
* **Instrument of Judgment:** The hornet acts to drive out `{{H1644}}` and destroy `{{H6}}` the inhabitants of Canaan, functioning as an agent of divine judgment against nations like the Hivite, Canaanite, and Hittite [[Exodus 23:28]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6880}}` is a powerful symbol of God's sovereignty. While appearing only three times, the **hornet** consistently represents a divine weapon sent to clear the way for Israel. Its use illustrates a core biblical theme: that God's promises are fulfilled not through human strength, but through His direct and often unconventional intervention in the world.