from שָׁבַץ; entanglement, i.e. (figuratively) perplexity; anguish.
Transliteration:shâbâts
Pronunciation:shaw-bawts'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H7661}}` (shâbâts) is derived from the root `{{H7660}}` (shâbats), which carries the primary meaning of "to interweave," "to embroider," or "to checker." This root suggests an intricate pattern or a state of being intricately joined or entangled. From this literal sense of complex weaving or entanglement, `{{H7661}}` extends figuratively to denote a state of deep mental and emotional distress. Its semantic range encompasses "perplexity," signifying a state of profound confusion, bewilderment, or being caught in a difficult, inexplicable situation, and "anguish," referring to severe mental or emotional pain, often arising from such a perplexing entanglement. The word thus paints a picture of being caught in a complex web of circumstances or emotions from which escape seems impossible, leading to deep distress.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{H7661}}` appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, found in the book of Job.
In [[Job 9:28]], Job laments, "If I say, I will forget my complaint, I will put off my sad countenance, and comfort myself: I am afraid of all my sorrows; I know that thou wilt not hold me innocent." The word `{{H7661}}` is translated here as "anguish" (KJV) or "dread" (NIV/ESV).
The context is Job's profound despair and his struggle to comprehend his suffering in light of God's perceived actions. Job feels utterly overwhelmed and trapped by his circumstances, believing that God is against him and that no matter what he does, he cannot be declared innocent. The use of `{{H7661}}` powerfully conveys his inner turmoil: he is not merely sad or in pain, but he feels *entangled* in his sorrows, *perplexed* by God's inscrutable ways, and consumed by a deep *anguish* that prevents him from finding any comfort or relief. This single occurrence highlights the depth of Job's psychological and spiritual distress, emphasizing his feeling of being caught in an inescapable and confusing predicament.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary connection for `{{H7661}}` is its root, `{{H7660}}` (shâbats), which means "to interweave" or "to make checker work." This etymological link is crucial, as it provides the underlying image of being caught or ensnared, much like threads in a complex pattern or a person caught in a net.
Other Hebrew words that convey similar notions of distress, trouble, or confusion include:
* `{{H6869}}` (tsarah): A broad term for distress, trouble, or affliction. While similar in outcome, `{{H7661}}` emphasizes the *feeling of being caught* in the trouble.
* `{{H6045}}` (amal): Toil, trouble, misery, often associated with the futility of human effort and the burden of life.
* `{{H3510}}` (k'ev): Pain or sorrow, often more focused on the direct sensation of suffering.
* `{{H926}}` (buk): To be perplexed or confused, though `{{H7661}}` adds the dimension of feeling *caught* or *ensnared* in that confusion.
`{{H7661}}` stands out due to its unique derivation from a root implying intricate weaving or entanglement, giving it a distinct nuance of being inextricably caught in a situation that causes both mental perplexity and emotional anguish.
### Theological Significance
The singular appearance of `{{H7661}}` in the book of Job carries significant theological weight. It serves as a profound descriptor of the human experience of inexplicable suffering and the accompanying spiritual crisis. Job's "anguish" or "perplexity" is not merely a transient emotion but a deep-seated state of being caught in a web of pain, misunderstanding, and perceived divine abandonment.
The concept of "entanglement" inherent in `{{H7661}}` suggests a loss of control and an inability to extricate oneself from a distressing situation. Theologically, this speaks to the human condition when faced with overwhelming circumstances that defy rational explanation, particularly when God's ways seem hidden or contrary to expectation. It highlights the spiritual challenge of maintaining faith and understanding when one feels trapped and without recourse. Job's use of this word underscores the depth of his existential crisis, where he feels ensnared by his suffering and by a God who seems to be an adversary rather than a deliverer. It implicitly points to the need for divine revelation or intervention to unravel such profound perplexity and anguish.
### Summary
The Hebrew word `{{H7661}}` (shâbâts), rooted in the concept of "interweaving" or "entanglement," describes a profound state of "perplexity" and "anguish." Its sole biblical occurrence in [[Job 9:28]] vividly portrays Job's deep emotional and mental distress. He feels inextricably caught in his suffering, bewildered by God's actions, and consumed by a despair that prevents him from finding comfort. This term uniquely emphasizes the feeling of being ensnared or trapped in a complex and painful situation, highlighting the comprehensive nature of suffering that affects not only the body but also the mind and spirit. `{{H7661}}` thus encapsulates the profound human experience of being caught in overwhelming circumstances, leading to a deep sense of confusion and inescapable sorrow.
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