### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼăbaʻbuʻâh**, represented by `{{H76}}`, describes an **inflammatory pustule** or **blains**. Derived from an unused root word meaning to belch forth, this term specifically refers to the eruptions associated with a severe boil. It is a rare word, appearing only **2 times** in **2 unique verses**, both within the same biblical event.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Both uses of `{{H76}}` occur during the narrative of the plagues in Egypt. It is part of the sixth plague, a divinely sent affliction of boils. The word is used to describe the painful outcome of this judgment, specifying that a **boil** `{{H7822}}` would be "breaking forth with **blains**" upon both **man** `{{H120}}` and **beast** `{{H929}}` throughout all the **land** `{{H776}}` of **Egypt** `{{H4714}}` [[Exodus 9:9]]. This event was initiated when **Moses** `{{H4872}}` **took** `{{H3947}}` **ashes** `{{H6368}}` from a **furnace** `{{H3536}}` and **sprinkled** `{{H2236}}` them toward **heaven** `{{H8064}}` in the sight of **Pharaoh** `{{H6547}}` [[Exodus 9:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller picture of the context in which `{{H76}}` appears:
* `{{H7822}}` **shᵉchîyn** (boil): This word for an inflammation or ulcer is intrinsically linked to `{{H76}}`. The **blains** are the eruptions that break out from the **boil** [[Exodus 9:10]], indicating a severe and widespread affliction.
* `{{H6524}}` **pârach** (breaking forth): This verb, which means to break forth or bloom, describes the action of the **blains**. It vividly portrays the sudden and eruptive nature of the plague as it spread upon the Egyptians [[Exodus 9:9]].
* `{{H6368}}` **pîyach** (ashes): This refers to the fine powder from a **furnace** `{{H3536}}` that served as the physical agent of the plague. That such a humble substance could cause grievous **blains** demonstrates the power behind the command [[Exodus 9:10]].
* `{{H2236}}` **zâraq** (sprinkle): This action performed by **Moses** `{{H4872}}` initiated the plague. The act of sprinkling ashes toward heaven resulted in the **blains** afflicting the Egyptians, signifying a judgment originating from God [[Exodus 9:10]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H76}}` is tied directly to its role in the plagues of Egypt.
* **Divine Judgment:** The appearance of **blains** is a direct and visible manifestation of God's judgment against the hard-heartedness of **Pharaoh** `{{H6547}}`. The plague was so severe that the magicians could not **stand** `{{H5975}}` before Moses because of the **boils** `{{H7822}}` [[Exodus 9:11]].
* **Power over Life and Health:** By inflicting **blains** upon both **man** `{{H120}}` and **beast** `{{H929}}`, God demonstrated his absolute authority over the physical well-being of all creatures in **Egypt** `{{H4714}}`, a domain the Egyptian gods were supposed to protect.
* **Symbol of Affliction:** The term describes a painful, eruptive condition, serving as a powerful symbol of divine punishment. The use of ashes from a furnace, an element of labor and refinement, being transformed into a source of torment underscores the severity of the judgment.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H76}}` is a highly specific term for the **blains** that erupted from boils during the sixth plague of Egypt. Though its usage is limited, it carries significant weight within its context, illustrating the power of God to execute judgment through physical affliction. The word is inseparable from the narrative of the Exodus, where it serves as a stark reminder of God’s sovereignty and His response to defiance.
TRV