### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **qashshâth**, represented by `{{H7199}}`, is a specific term for a **bowman** or **archer**. Its base definition indicates it is an intensive form derived from the word for bow. This word is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, making its singular context essential to its meaning.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H7199}}` is found in [[Genesis 21:20]], which describes the life of Ishmael after being sent away. The verse states, "And God{H430} was with the lad{H5288}; and he grew{H1431}, and dwelt{H3427} in the wilderness{H4057}, and became an archer{H7235}{H7199}." In this narrative, the skill of being an **archer** is presented as the culmination of a process of maturation that occurred under God's direct presence and care in a harsh environment.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{H7199}}` is enriched by several surrounding Hebrew words found in [[Genesis 21:20]]:
* `{{H1431}}` **gâdal** (to grow up, make great): This word describes the lad's development before he became an archer. It is often associated with God's power to `make great` his people or their name [[Genesis 12:2]].
* `{{H3427}}` **yâshab** (to dwell, remain): This term establishes the lad’s permanent state in the wilderness. It signifies more than just passing through; it is to inhabit a place, as when God’s people are called to `dwell` in the land [[Joshua 24:15]].
* `{{H4057}}` **midbâr** (wilderness, desert): This defines the setting where the skill of archery was essential for survival. The wilderness is frequently a place of divine testing, preparation, and provision [[Isaiah 40:3]].
* `{{H5288}}` **naʻar** (lad, young man): This identifies the subject who becomes the archer, highlighting his youth during this period of development and reliance on God [[Proverbs 22:6]].
### Theological Significance
Though used only once, the theological weight of `{{H7199}}` is derived entirely from its narrative placement.
* **Divine Providence:** The verse begins by stating that **God** `{{H430}}` was with the lad. This divine presence is the direct cause of his survival, growth, and eventual mastery of a skill. It demonstrates God's faithfulness even to those outside the primary covenant line [[Isaiah 41:10]].
* **Maturation as a Blessing:** The lad's journey from being a boy to becoming an **archer** is framed by the verbs "grew" `{{H1431}}` and "became" `{{H7235}}`. This shows skill and strength as a result of God’s active involvement in a person's life.
* **Thriving in Isolation:** Becoming an archer in the **wilderness** `{{H4057}}` symbolizes achieving proficiency and self-sufficiency in a place of hardship. It illustrates a theme of God preparing individuals in desolate places for a specific purpose [[Deuteronomy 8:2]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7199}}` **qashshâth** is a precise term whose meaning is inseparable from its only scriptural context. It does not just mean **archer** in an abstract sense, but rather signifies one who becomes a skilled bowman as a direct result of God’s providential care. The word marks the successful outcome of a young man `{{H5288}}` who grew `{{H1431}}` and dwelt `{{H3427}}` in the wilderness `{{H4057}}` because God `{{H430}}` was with him [[Genesis 21:20]].
TRV