### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shᵉchîyth**, represented by `{{H7825}}`, signifies a **pit-fall** or **destruction**. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Derived from שָׁחָה, its definition includes both a literal **pit** and the figurative state of being destroyed, highlighting its use for physical traps and dire circumstances.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two uses of `{{H7825}}` illustrate its dual meaning. In Psalms, it refers to a state of ruin, where God "sent{H7971} his word{H1697}, and healed{H7495} them, and delivered{H4422} them from their **destructions**" [[Psalms 107:20]]. In contrast, Lamentations uses the word to describe literal traps, lamenting that "the anointed{H4899} of the LORD{H3068}, was taken{H3920} in their **pits**" [[Lamentations 4:20]]. This capture signifies a national catastrophe, as a key leader was ensnared.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context of being caught in or delivered from a pit:
* `{{H3920}}` **lâkad** (to catch): This verb describes the action of the pitfall. It is used in [[Lamentations 4:20]] to state that the LORD's anointed "was **taken**" in the pits, directly linking the word to the act of capture.
* `{{H4422}}` **mâlaṭ** (to release or rescue): This term presents the direct contrast to the peril of `{{H7825}}`. In [[Psalms 107:20]], God **delivered** his people from their destructions, showing a divine rescue from this state of ruin.
* `{{H1697}}` **dâbâr** (a word): This is identified as the instrument of deliverance. It is God's "word{H1697}" that is sent to heal and rescue from the "destructions{H7825}" in [[Psalms 107:20]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7825}}` is seen in its portrayal of both peril and rescue.
* **Divine Deliverance:** The term is used to magnify God's power to save. He is the one who can deliver people from "destructions{H7825}," doing so by sending His word to heal and restore them [[Psalms 107:20]].
* **Metaphor for Ensnarement:** The "pits{H7825}" in [[Lamentations 4:20]] function as a powerful metaphor for the downfall and capture of God's chosen leader, the "anointed{H4899} of the LORD{H3068}," illustrating a state of defeat and helplessness.
* **Loss of Protection:** The capture of the anointed in the "pits" leads to a loss of hope for the people, who had said, "Under his shadow{H6738} we shall live{H2421}" [[Lamentations 4:20]]. The pit thus represents a strategic blow that dismantles the security of the nation.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7825}}` is a potent term that conveys both a physical trap and a state of figurative ruin. Though used sparingly, it effectively illustrates the concepts of calamitous downfall, as seen in the capture of the LORD's anointed, and the ultimate hope of divine deliverance from such destructions through God's powerful word.
TRV