### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **sûwk**, represented by `{{H7753}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to entwine or shut in**. It appears only **3 times** in 3 unique verses. Its core definition encompasses the ideas of formation, protection, or restraint, often translated as to **fence** or **make a hedge up**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The uses of `{{H7753}}` in scripture illustrate its distinct applications. In Job, it describes God's divine protection, with Satan questioning if God has not **made an hedge** about Job and all that he possesses [[Job 1:10]]. The same word is used by Job to describe his own physical creation, noting how God has **fenced** him with bones and sinews [[Job 10:11]]. In a contrasting context, God uses the term to signify restraint and judgment, vowing to **hedge** up Israel's path with thorns to prevent her from pursuing her sinful ways [[Hosea 2:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and context of `{{H7753}}`:
* `{{H1157}}` **bᵉʻad** (about, at by, for, over, through): This preposition is used alongside `{{H7753}}` in [[Job 1:10]] to specify the subject of the protective hedge, indicating it was placed **about** him and his house.
* `{{H1447}}` **gâdêr** (fence, hedge, wall): This noun often describes the result of the action of `{{H7753}}`. In [[Hosea 2:6]], God promises to "hedge up" the way and also "make a **wall**," showing a parallel between the verb and the resulting noun.
* `{{H5518}}` **çîyr** (pot; also a thorn): This word provides the material for the hedge of restraint in [[Hosea 2:6]], where God declares He will hedge up the path with **thorns**.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7753}}` is seen in its portrayal of God's direct actions toward humanity.
* **Divine Protection:** The word is used to describe the providential care God provides for the righteous. In Job's case, this "hedge" was a barrier against harm and a source of blessing [[Job 1:10]].
* **Sovereign Formation:** `{{H7753}}` is applied to the very act of creation, where God's "fencing" a person with bones and sinews illustrates His intimate and powerful role as the author of life [[Job 10:11]].
* **Corrective Judgment:** The concept of a hedge is also used to illustrate divine discipline. God hedges the path of the wayward, not to destroy, but to restrain and redirect them from self-destructive choices [[Hosea 2:6]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7753}}` is a concise but potent verb that demonstrates God's sovereignty. Though rare, its three appearances powerfully convey His ability to protect, to create, and to restrain. It shows how a single concept of "fencing in" can apply to the blessing of the righteous, the physical formation of a human body, and the corrective discipline of a nation.
TRV