### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **sûwr**, represented by `{{H7786}}`, is a primitive root primarily meaning to vanquish or rule. Its definition extends to the concepts of making princes, having power, and reigning. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses**, indicating a specific but significant application in scripture.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The uses of `{{H7786}}` illustrate its range from political to personal power. It describes a straightforward political reign, as when Abimelech had **reigned** over Israel for three years [[Judges 9:22]]. It is also used to describe the act of appointing unauthorized leaders, as when the people "have **made princes**, and I knew it not" [[Hosea 8:4]]. In a unique context, the word is applied to Jacob's spiritual struggle, where he "had **power** over the angel, and prevailed" [[Hosea 12:4]], highlighting the word's connection to vanquishing an opponent.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context of `{{H7786}}` and its implications:
* `{{H4427}}` **mâlak** (to reign; inceptively, to ascend the throne; causatively, to induct into royalty): This word is used in parallel with `{{H7786}}` to describe the appointing of illegitimate rulers, as seen when the people "have set up kings, but not by me: they have **made princes**" [[Hosea 8:4]].
* `{{H3201}}` **yâkôl** (to be able, literally (can, could) or morally (may, might); be able, any at all (ways), attain, can (away with, (-not)), could, endure, might, overcome, have power, prevail, still, suffer): This term is paired with `{{H7786}}` to describe Jacob's success in his struggle with the angel, where he had **power** and **prevailed** [[Hosea 12:4]].
* `{{H3045}}` **yâdaʻ** (to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing)): This word provides crucial context for the use of `{{H7786}}` in Hosea, where God states that the people made princes, "and I **knew** it not," signifying an act done without divine approval [[Hosea 8:4]].
* `{{H2603}}` **chânan** (properly, to bend or stoop in kindness to an inferior; to favor, bestow): In the account of Jacob's struggle, after he had power `{{H7786}}`, he wept and **made supplication** to the angel, showing that his power was followed by humility [[Hosea 12:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7786}}` is centered on the nature and source of authority.
* **Human vs. Divine Authority:** The word is used to draw a sharp contrast between power that is seized by humans and authority that is granted by God. The act of making princes `{{H7786}}` without God's knowledge is presented as a transgression [[Hosea 8:4]].
* **Power in Spiritual Struggle:** In the account of Jacob, `{{H7786}}` is used to define the power one can have in a direct encounter with the divine. It signifies the ability to persevere and prevail in a spiritual contest [[Hosea 12:4]].
* **The Consequence of Illegitimate Rule:** The context of [[Hosea 8:4]] shows that when people use their power to make princes `{{H7786}}` in defiance of God, it leads to idolatry and eventual judgment, where they will "be cut off" `{{H3772}}`.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7786}}` is a potent term for power and rule. Though used sparingly, it effectively distinguishes between a simple political reign, the appointment of rulers, and the power to vanquish in a personal struggle. Its primary theological contribution is to question the source of power, contrasting human-derived authority with that which is divinely ordained and highlighting the dire consequences of unsanctioned rule.
TRV