### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼâbaq**, represented by `{{H79}}`, is a primitive root used to mean **wrestle** or grapple. Its base definition suggests the idea of being covered in dust, as in a struggle, derived from a root meaning to float away like vapor. It appears only **2 times** in **2 unique verses**, both describing one of the most pivotal encounters in scripture.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Both uses of `{{H79}}` occur in the narrative of Jacob wrestling with an unidentified **man** `{{H376}}` all night. In [[Genesis 32:24]], Jacob is alone when a man **wrestled** with him until the breaking of the day. The intensity of the struggle is highlighted in the following verse, where the man, seeing that he could not **prevail** `{{H3201}}` against Jacob, touched the hollow of his thigh. As a direct result of their physical engagement, Jacob's thigh was put out of joint as he **wrestled** with him [[Genesis 32:25]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are crucial to understanding the context of this wrestling match:
* `{{H3290}}` **Yaʻăqôb** (Jacob): The patriarch himself, whose name means "heel-catcher" or "supplanter." The wrestling match is a defining moment of his life and identity.
* `{{H3201}}` **yâkôl** (to be able, prevail): This word describes the man's inability to overcome Jacob through the struggle alone, demonstrating Jacob's immense perseverance [[Genesis 32:25]].
* `{{H3363}}` **yâqaʻ** (be out of joint): This term describes the physical consequence for Jacob. His hip was dislocated, marking him permanently from this encounter [[Genesis 32:25]].
* `{{H376}}` **ʼîysh** (a man): This word identifies Jacob's opponent, whose divine nature is revealed as the encounter progresses [[Genesis 32:24]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H79}}` is concentrated in this single event, which carries profound significance.
* **A Transformative Struggle:** The act of wrestling is not just a physical fight but a spiritual one that redefines Jacob's identity. He enters the struggle as Jacob but emerges as Israel because he has power with God and with men, and has **prevailed** `{{H3201}}` [[Genesis 32:28]].
* **Perseverance in Faith:** Jacob's physical clinging to his opponent symbolizes a tenacious faith. He refuses to let go, even after being injured, until he receives a blessing [[Genesis 32:26]].
* **Encountering God Through Hardship:** The wrestling match illustrates that engaging with God can be a difficult, painful struggle that leaves a mark. The injury to Jacob's **thigh** `{{H3409}}` is a lasting reminder of his encounter with the divine [[Genesis 32:25]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H79}}` **ʼâbaq**, though rare, provides the vocabulary for a foundational biblical event. It moves beyond a simple definition of wrestling to encapsulate a transformative struggle with God. The story of Jacob illustrates that such wrestling, though it may result in weakness and pain, is also the path to a new identity and a divine blessing.
TRV