### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼAshîymâʼ**, represented by `{{H807}}`, is a term **of foreign origin** that names **Ashima, a deity of Hamath**. This proper name is highly specific, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire biblical text. Its sole purpose is to identify a specific idol worshiped by a non-Israelite people.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical reference to `{{H807}}` is found in a historical account detailing the idolatrous practices of the foreign peoples relocated to Samaria by the king of Assyria. In this context, **Ashima** is explicitly identified as a man-made god. The scripture states that "the men of Hamath made Ashima" [[2 Kings 17:30]], positioning this deity alongside other idols like Nergal and Succothbenoth, which were fashioned by other groups.
### Related Words & Concepts
The verse in which `{{H807}}` appears connects it to other significant Hebrew words:
* `{{H582}}` **ʼĕnôwsh**: This word, meaning a **mortal** or **a man in general**, is used to identify the people who created the idols [[2 Kings 17:30]]. It emphasizes the human and finite origin of these objects of worship, contrasting with the divine. The question in scripture, "What is man{H582}, that thou art mindful of him?" [[Psalms 8:4]], further highlights this distinction.
* `{{H6213}}` **ʻâsâh**: Defined as **to do or make**, this primitive root describes the action of creating the idol Ashima [[2 Kings 17:30]]. The use of this word for making an idol stands in direct contrast to its use in describing God's creative power, as when He "made{H6213} the heaven and the earth" [[Jeremiah 32:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H807}}` is found in its negative example.
* **Case Study in Idolatry:** The mention of **Ashima** provides a clear, unambiguous instance of idolatry. It illustrates the violation of the command against making graven images, as the "men{H582} of Hamath made{H6213} Ashima" to be an object of worship [[2 Kings 17:30]].
* **Foreign Worship:** As a deity of Hamath, **Ashima** represents the encroachment of foreign pagan practices into the land of Israel. Its presence in the narrative highlights the spiritual corruption that resulted from the mixing of peoples and their religions.
* **Human vs. Divine Creation:** The act of men "making" `{{H6213}}` their own god, **Ashima**, underscores the folly of idolatry. It contrasts the limited power of mortals with the omnipotence of the Lord, who is the uncreated Creator of all things [[Jeremiah 32:17]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H807}}` **ʼAshîymâʼ** is not a complex term with layered meanings but a proper name for a foreign idol. Its importance lies in its singular, potent appearance in scripture. The mention of **Ashima** in [[2 Kings 17:30]] serves as a stark illustration of idolatry, providing a concrete example of the pagan worship that stood in direct opposition to the worship of the God of Israel. It functions as a powerful theological counterpoint, defining true worship by showing what it is not.
TRV