### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shâdaph**, represented by `{{H7710}}`, is a primitive root defined as **to scorch** or **blast**. This specific and evocative term appears only **3 times** across 3 unique verses in the Bible, exclusively within the narrative of Pharaoh's dream. It vividly describes a state of agricultural ruin and crop failure.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical context, `{{H7710}}` is used to characterize the blighted ears of grain in Pharaoh's prophetic dream. These ears are described as "thin and **blasted** with the east wind" [[Genesis 41:6]]. The word appears again when Pharaoh recounts the dream to Joseph, describing "seven ears, withered, thin, and **blasted** with the east wind" [[Genesis 41:23]]. Joseph's interpretation confirms this imagery, explaining that the seven empty ears **blasted** with the east wind signify seven years of famine [[Genesis 41:27]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the state of devastation associated with `{{H7710}}`:
* `{{H6921}}` **qâdîym** (east wind): Identified as the direct cause of the blight in all three instances, this term refers to the **east wind**. It is often portrayed as a powerful, destructive force capable of drying up fruit [[Ezekiel 19:12]] or even parting the sea [[Exodus 14:21]].
* `{{H1851}}` **daq** (thin): Used alongside **shâdaph**, this word means **small or thin**. It describes the physical state of the scorched ears, emphasizing their lack of substance [[Genesis 41:23]].
* `{{H7386}}` **rêyq** (empty): This word, meaning **empty** or figuratively worthless, further characterizes the blighted ears, highlighting their inability to provide nourishment [[Genesis 41:27]].
* `{{H7458}}` **râʻâb** (famine): This term for **famine** or dearth is the ultimate consequence of the condition described by **shâdaph**. The blasted ears are a direct symbol of the coming years of famine [[Genesis 41:27]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H7710}}` is tied directly to the narrative of God's sovereignty over Egypt.
* **Prophetic Warning:** The appearance of **blasted** ears in a divinely-sent dream serves as a clear warning of impending judgment and hardship. The term signifies a ruin that is foretold before it occurs.
* **Agent of Judgment:** The scorching is attributed to the **east wind** `{{H6921}}`, demonstrating how God can use natural forces as agents to execute His plans and bring about events like a devastating **famine** `{{H7458}}`.
* **Symbol of Worthlessness:** By describing the ears as **blasted**, the text highlights their complete futility. They are not just poor quality but are rendered entirely useless, symbolizing the stark reality of a land without God's provision. The seven **empty** ears represent seven years of famine [[Genesis 41:27]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7710}}` provides a potent and focused image of destruction. Though its usage is rare, it plays a critical role in the story of Pharaoh's dream by defining the nature of the coming catastrophe. It encapsulates the idea of a crop being **scorched** and ruined by a powerful wind, serving as the central symbol of a divine warning that foreshadows a great **famine**. The word powerfully communicates a state of utter desolation and agricultural failure.
TRV