### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **sôwk**, represented by `{{H7754}}`, means a **bough** or a branch, often one that is interleaved. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, with both occurrences found within a single narrative, highlighting its specific and impactful role in that context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H7754}}` is exclusively tied to the account of Abimelech's assault on the tower of Shechem. Abimelech commands his followers to imitate him by cutting down a **bough** `{{H7754}}` from the trees on Mount Zalmon [[Judges 9:48]]. The people obey, and each man cuts down his own **bough** [[Judges 9:49]]. These boughs are then used not for construction or worship, but as fuel to set fire to the stronghold, resulting in the deaths of about a thousand men and women.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the actions surrounding the **bough**:
* `{{H3772}}` **kârath** (to cut): This is the direct action performed on the **bough**. The root means to cut off or down, but it is also the same word used to make a covenant, showing a range from destruction to solemn agreement [[Genesis 15:18]].
* `{{H6086}}` **ʻêts** (a tree; wood): This is the source from which the **bough** is taken [[Judges 9:48]]. A tree often symbolizes life, but here its parts are repurposed for death.
* `{{H7134}}` **qardôm** (an axe): This is the tool Abimelech uses to **cut down** `{{H3772}}` the **bough** [[Judges 9:48]], representing the instrument of separation and destruction.
* `{{H3341}}` **yâtsath** (to burn or set on fire): This verb describes the ultimate purpose of the gathered boughs, which were used to **set** the hold on fire and bring about its desolation [[Judges 9:49]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{H7754}}` in scripture, though limited, carries significant narrative weight.
* **Instrument of Destruction:** The **bough**, a natural part of a tree, is severed and transformed into a weapon. Its use illustrates how elements of creation can be turned toward violence and death under corrupt leadership.
* **Symbol of Collective Action:** The act of "every man" cutting his **bough** [[Judges 9:49]] demonstrates the power of a leader to incite mass participation in a destructive plan. The boughs become a physical manifestation of the people's unified intent to follow Abimelech.
* **Fuel for Judgment:** The boughs are gathered specifically to be used with **fire** `{{H784}}`. This connects the event to the broader biblical theme where fire acts as an agent of consuming judgment and destruction [[Judges 9:49]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7754}}` **sôwk** is a term with a narrow but potent application. While its literal meaning is simply a **bough**, its sole biblical context in the book of Judges ties it irrevocably to themes of violence, destructive leadership, and collective sin. It demonstrates how a common object can become a powerful symbol within a narrative, representing the perversion of nature for the purpose of executing a brutal attack.
TRV