### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **sheṭeph**, represented by `{{H7858}}`, describes a deluge, flood, or that which is overflowing. It is derived from the root `{{H7857}}` **shâṭaph** and appears **6 times** in **6 unique verses**. The term is used both literally to mean a flood of water and figuratively to describe an overwhelming force or intense emotion.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{H7858}}` carries a sense of overwhelming power. Prophetically, it is used to describe the destruction of the city and sanctuary, whose end will be with a **flood** [[Daniel 9:26]]. In a similar context of judgment, God is depicted as using an "overrunning **flood**" to bring an "utter end" to his enemies [[Nahum 1:8]]. The term is also applied to military force, where armies are described as being overflown by the "arms of a **flood**" [[Daniel 11:22]]. On a personal level, it characterizes intense human emotion, as when anger is described as **outrageous** [[Proverbs 27:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of an overwhelming deluge:
* `{{H7857}}` **shâṭaph** (to gush; by implication, to inundate): As the primitive root of `{{H7858}}`, this verb describes the action of a flood. It is used to describe how waters **overflow** the land in judgment [[Jeremiah 47:2]] and how an "overflowing scourge" will pass through [[Isaiah 28:18]].
* `{{H5674}}` **ʻâbar** (to cross over; used very widely of any transition): This word is used in [[Nahum 1:8]] to describe the **overrunning** nature of the flood, emphasizing its movement across a place. It can also describe calamities that **be overpast** [[Psalms 57:1]].
* `{{H4325}}` **mayim** (water): This is the common Hebrew word for water and is often paired with `{{H7858}}` to specify the nature of the deluge, as in "the **floods** of great **waters**" from which the godly seek protection [[Psalms 32:6]].
* `{{H8585}}` **tᵉʻâlâh** (a channel... watercourse): In [[Job 38:25]], this word is used in contrast to an uncontrolled flood. God's power is shown in His ability to divide a **watercourse** specifically "for the overflowing of waters," demonstrating His command over such forces.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7858}}` is significant, often illustrating overwhelming power and divine sovereignty.
* **Instrument of Judgment:** The word is frequently a metaphor for divine judgment. The destruction of the city and sanctuary is linked to a **flood** [[Daniel 9:26]], and God Himself wields an "overrunning **flood**" to execute His purposes against His enemies [[Nahum 1:8]].
* **Overwhelming Force:** Beyond divine action, **sheṭeph** is used to describe other irresistible forces. This includes the crushing power of armies depicted as "the arms of a **flood**" [[Daniel 11:22]] and the destructive potential of human passion, where anger is deemed **outrageous** [[Proverbs 27:4]].
* **Divine Sovereignty:** While representing chaos, the flood is ultimately under God's control. He is the one who "divided a watercourse for the overflowing of waters" [[Job 38:25]], and it is to Him the godly pray for deliverance from its reach [[Psalms 32:6]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7858}}` is a potent term that signifies more than just a literal inundation. It serves as a powerful biblical symbol for any force—divine, military, or emotional—that is overwhelming and seemingly unstoppable. From its use in describing divine judgment to characterizing human anger, **sheṭeph** consistently illustrates a power that can overrun and submerge, while also highlighting the ultimate sovereignty of God who commands even the flood.
TRV