### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shîychâh**, represented by `{{H7882}}`, is a term for a **pit** or **pit-fall**. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. The word is an alternative form for `{{H7745}}` **shûwchâh** and consistently refers to a trap, often one dug with malicious intent by an adversary.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H7882}}` is consistently used to describe a trap dug by enemies. In [[Psalms 57:6]], the psalmist laments that adversaries have "digged a **pit** before me," only to fall into it themselves. This theme of a malicious plot is echoed in [[Jeremiah 18:22]], where the people have "digged a **pit** to take me, and hid snares for my feet." Similarly, the psalmist in [[Psalms 119:85]] states that the proud have "digged **pits** for me," highlighting this act as a violation of God's law.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illustrate the concept of creating a hidden trap:
* `{{H3738}}` **kârâh** (to dig; figuratively, to plot): This verb is used in every instance where a **pit** `{{H7882}}` is mentioned, signifying the deliberate action of creating a trap for another ([[Psalms 119:85]], [[Jeremiah 18:22]], [[Psalms 57:6]]).
* `{{H7568}}` **resheth** (a net): This word is used in parallel with a **pit** to describe the methods of an adversary. In [[Psalms 57:6]], enemies are said to have "prepared a **net** for my steps" just before it is said they "digged a **pit**."
* `{{H2934}}` **ṭâman** (to hide): This term emphasizes the deceptive nature of the traps. In [[Jeremiah 18:22]], the digging of a **pit** is paired with the action to "**hid** snares for my feet," underscoring the theme of secret plots.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7882}}` is found in its consistent context of persecution and justice.
* **Symbol of Malicious Intent:** The act of digging a **pit** `{{H7882}}` is never neutral; it is always portrayed as a malicious and deliberate plot by the "proud" or enemies against the speaker ([[Psalms 119:85]], [[Jeremiah 18:22]]).
* **A Violation of Divine Law:** The creation of such a trap is explicitly defined as an act that is "not after thy law," setting the actions of the wicked in direct opposition to God's commands [[Psalms 119:85]].
* **Theme of Retributive Justice:** A key theological point is that those who dig a **pit** for the righteous often become the victims of their own scheme. [[Psalms 57:6]] provides a clear example, stating, "they are fallen themselves" into the very **pit** they prepared.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7882}}` **shîychâh** is a specific term that carries a strong negative connotation. Though used only a few times, it consistently illustrates a method of persecution used by the wicked against the righteous. The digging of a **pit** represents a premeditated, hidden danger, an act that stands in defiance of God's law. The use of this word in scripture not only highlights the psalmist's distress but also points to a theme of divine justice, where evil plots are ultimately turned back upon their creators.
TRV