The Hebrew word qav-qav, represented by H6978, is an idiom meaning meted out. It is derived from a root word signifying a fastening. This is a rare term in scripture, appearing only 2 times across 2 unique verses.
The word's usage is highly specific, found exclusively in the book of Isaiah. In both occurrences, it is part of a longer, descriptive phrase identifying a particular group of people. The prophet describes "a nation meted out and trodden down" Isaiah 18:2 and "a nation meted out and trodden under foot" Isaiah 18:7. In this context, it characterizes a nation that has been measured and judged, subject to hardship and subjugation.
H6978 appears alongside several other descriptive terms that clarify its meaning:
- H4900 mâshak: This word, used for "scattered" in the same verses, has a primary meaning "to draw." It paints a picture of a people who have been drawn out or scattered (Isaiah 18:2, Isaiah 18:7).
- H4178 môwrâṭ: Defined as "peeled," this term is used to describe the same nation, adding to the imagery of a people who have been stripped or made smooth (Isaiah 18:2, Isaiah 18:7).
- H4001 mᵉbûwçâh: Meaning "a trampling," this word is consistently paired with H6978 to describe the nation as "trodden down" or "trodden under foot," emphasizing their oppressed state (Isaiah 18:2, Isaiah 18:7).
- H958 bâzâʼ: Meaning to "spoil," this word is used to describe the land of this nation, stating it is a place "whose land the rivers have spoiled" (Isaiah 18:2, Isaiah 18:7).
The significance of H6978 is found entirely within its prophetic context in Isaiah 18.
- Describing a Subjected People: The term meted out is used to characterize a powerful and "terrible" nation that is nevertheless measured, judged, and subjugated Isaiah 18:2.
- Paired with Hardship: It is never used alone, but always in conjunction with terms like "scattered," "peeled," and "trodden down," creating a cumulative picture of a people who have endured significant affliction Isaiah 18:7.
- A Future Role in Worship: Despite their condition, this very nation—described as "meted out and trodden under foot"—is prophesied to bring "the present unto the LORD of hosts" to "the mount Zion" Isaiah 18:7.
In summary, H6978 qav-qav is a highly specialized term used twice in scripture to mean meted out. Its sole application in Isaiah 18 describes a nation that is simultaneously formidable and subjugated. Paired with other words of hardship, it paints a picture of a people who have been judged and oppressed, yet are still destined to have a future role in bringing honor to the LORD at Mount Zion.
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