The Hebrew word sâṭam, represented by H7852, is a primitive root that means to lurk for, i.e. persecute; hate, oppose self against. It appears 6 times in 6 unique verses, highlighting specific instances of intense animosity and opposition.
In the biblical narrative, H7852 often describes deep-seated, personal animosity. The most prominent example is Esau's H6215 hatred for Jacob after being deceived of his blessing, a hatred so intense it led him to plot murder Genesis 27:41. Similarly, Joseph's brothers feared he would hate them and retaliate for their past evil Genesis 50:15. The term is also used to express the anguish of the afflicted; Job uses it to describe the hostile opposition he feels from an enemy Job 16:9 and even from God Job 30:21, while the psalmist laments the oppression H6125 of the wicked H7563 who hate him in wrath H639 Psalms 55:3.
Several related words illuminate the nature and consequences of the hatred described by sâṭam:
- H2026 hârag (to smite with deadly intent; slay): This word reveals the ultimate outcome of the hatred expressed by sâṭam. Esau's hatred for Jacob is immediately followed by his intention to slay him Genesis 27:41.
- H639 'aph (anger, wrath): This term is frequently paired with H7852, indicating that this form of hatred is not passive but is fueled by active wrath. This is seen when the psalmist describes his enemies who "in wrath they hate me" Psalms 55:3 and in Job's lament Job 16:9.
- H7563 râshâʻ (wicked (man)): The hatred of sâṭam is often characterized as an action of the wicked. In Psalms 55:3, the psalmist endures hatred as part of the "oppression of the wicked," linking this animosity to moral corruption.
The concept of H7852 carries significant weight, illustrating themes of conflict and suffering.
- Destructive Animosity: The word is used to describe a deep and active hostility that often leads to persecution or violence. Esau's hatred for Jacob is a clear example, where the feeling is immediately connected to a plan to slay H2026 his brother Genesis 27:41.
- Source of Oppression: Sâṭam is identified as a tool of the wicked H7563 to inflict suffering. The psalmist links the "voice of the enemy" and the "oppression H6125 of the wicked" directly to the fact that "in wrath H639 they hate me" Psalms 55:3.
- Perceived Divine Opposition: In the book of Job, the term is used to express the profound anguish of a sufferer who feels he is being unjustly targeted. Job describes God as becoming cruel H393 and using his power to oppose him Job 30:21, framing his suffering as a form of divine hatred.
In summary, H7852 sâṭam is not a term for passive dislike but for an active, persecuting hatred. It captures the animosity that drives familial conflict, the oppression of the wicked, and the desperate cries of those who feel unjustly opposed. Its limited but powerful usage in scripture paints a stark picture of a destructive force rooted in wrath and bent on harm.
TRV