### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **sîyg**, represented by `{{H7873}}`, means a **withdrawal (into a private place)** or **pursuing**. It is an exceedingly rare term, appearing just **1 time** in a single verse in the entire biblical text.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H7873}}` is found in a moment of dramatic confrontation on Mount Carmel. The prophet Elijah, mocking the prophets of Baal, sarcastically suggests reasons why their god fails to answer them. He speculates that Baal may be occupied, saying he "is talking `{{H7879}}`, or he is **pursuing** `{{H7873}}`, or he is in a journey `{{H1870}}`, or peradventure he sleepeth `{{H3463}}`, and must be awaked `{{H3364}}`" [[1 Kings 18:27]]. In this context, **sîyg** portrays a deity who is distracted or has withdrawn, rendering him unavailable to his followers.
### Related Words & Concepts
The words used alongside `{{H7873}}` in Elijah's taunt help to define its meaning by association:
* `{{H7879}}` **sîyach** (talking): This word can refer to mundane **talk** or **babbling**, as well as deeper **meditation** or **complaint** ([[Proverbs 23:29]], [[Psalms 142:2]]). In Elijah's list, it suggests Baal is simply lost in thought or conversation.
* `{{H1870}}` **derek** (journey): Defined as a road or, figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, this word suggests Baal is physically traveling and cannot be reached. It often describes a person's moral **way** [[Isaiah 55:7]].
* `{{H3463}}` **yâshên** (sleepeth): Meaning **sleepy** or **asleep**, this is the most direct of the imagined excuses. It completes the picture of a thoroughly inattentive and powerless god [[1 Kings 18:27]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H7873}}` is derived entirely from its unique, satirical context.
* **The Limitation of False Gods:** The use of **sîyg** contributes to a depiction of a finite, human-like god. Whether "pursuing" something or having "withdrawn" to a private place, Baal is presented as a being with limitations and preoccupations, unable to attend to his worshippers.
* **A Tool of Prophetic Mockery:** The word is part of a list of mundane possibilities for Baal's silence. The entire event is framed by the verb **hâthal** `{{H2048}}`, meaning to **mock** or **deal deceitfully** [[1 Kings 18:27]]. This shows that the use of **sîyg** is intended to expose the absurdity of idol worship.
* **The Futility of Idolatry:** By suggesting Baal is simply busy, Elijah highlights the lifeless and unresponsive nature of idols. This reinforces the idea found elsewhere that idol worship is based on a "deceived `{{H2048}}` heart" [[Isaiah 44:20]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7873}}` **sîyg** is a word whose meaning is inseparable from its singular context. While its base definition is "a withdrawal" or "pursuing," its biblical role is to serve as a sharp, satirical tool in the hands of Elijah. It functions to ridicule the god Baal, painting him as a distracted and limited being, thereby powerfully illustrating the biblical argument against the folly of idolatry.
TRV