### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼeshdâth**, represented by `{{H799}}`, is a unique term for a **fiery law**. Its definition is derived from the combination of **ʼêsh** (fire) and **dâth** (law). This compound word appears only **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the Bible, signifying a specific and potent concept that merges the authority of a divine statute with the power and intensity of fire.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{H799}}` is found in a majestic description of God's revelation. In [[Deuteronomy 33:2]], it is said{H559} that the LORD{H3068} came{H935} from Sinai{H5514}, rose up{H2224} from Seir{H8165}, and shined forth{H3313} from mount{H2022} Paran{H6290}. In this powerful scene, He came{H857} with ten thousands{H7233} of saints{H6944}, and from His right hand{H3225} "went a **fiery law** for them." The term is used to characterize the divine law given amidst this overwhelming display of glory and power.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help unpack the meaning of `{{H799}}` by examining its components and the context of its use:
* `{{H784}}` **ʼêsh** (fire): This primitive word means **fire (literally or figuratively)**. It forms the "fiery" part of **ʼeshdâth**, connecting God's law to His awesome power, which is described as a consuming **fire** [[Deuteronomy 9:3]] that can also refine His people [[Zechariah 13:9]].
* `{{H1881}}` **dâth** (law): This word for a **royal edict or statute** provides the "law" component. It emphasizes the law's nature as a binding commandment from the ultimate King, whether used for a human king's **decree** [[Esther 9:1]] or for God's divine **law** [[Deuteronomy 33:2]].
* `{{H3225}}` **yâmîyn** (right hand): Meaning **the right hand or side**, this word is crucial to the context. The fiery law originates from God's **right hand**, a symbol of his saving strength and authority [[Isaiah 41:10]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H799}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful appearance, which reveals key truths about God's law.
* **Majestic Revelation:** The term is embedded in a description of a theophany, where the LORD{H3068} comes{H935} from Sinai{H5514} and shines forth{H3313} [[Deuteronomy 33:2]]. The "fiery law" is not given in a vacuum but is part of the awesome and glorious revelation of God Himself.
* **The Nature of Law:** By joining **fire** `{{H784}}` and **law** `{{H1881}}`, the word shows that God's commandments are dynamic and powerful. His law reflects His holy and consuming nature, just as His word is elsewhere described as being like a **fire** [[Jeremiah 23:29]].
* **Sovereign Authority:** The law's origin from God's **right hand** `{{H3225}}` signifies that it is issued with His full might and authority. This establishes the law as a direct and powerful expression of the sovereign will of God for His people.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H799}}` **ʼeshdâth** is a uniquely descriptive term whose rarity enhances its impact. Though used only once, it powerfully encapsulates the nature of God's law as revealed in scripture. By combining the concepts of **fire** `{{H784}}` and **law** `{{H1881}}`, it presents the divine commandments not as cold statutes, but as a living, powerful extension of God’s own glorious and holy character. Its appearance in [[Deuteronomy 33:2]] firmly roots the law in the majestic power of God's self-revelation at Sinai.
TRV