The Hebrew word ʼâshîysh, represented by H808, refers to a foundation, particularly in the sense of a ruined one. It is derived from a root word implying the act of pressing down firmly. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible.
The sole appearance of H808 is in a prophecy of judgment against Moab. The text declares that the people will mourn for the foundations of the city of Kirhareseth, which are described as being "stricken" Isaiah 16:7. In this context, the word signifies the very base and stability of the city, and its destruction represents a complete and total collapse that is a cause for intense grief.
The words used in conjunction with H808 in its only verse highlight the theme of judgment and loss:
- H4124 Môwʼâb (Moab): This refers to the territory and descendants of Moab. The judgment described is directed at this nation, as seen in prophecies where God promises to deliver the Moabites into the hands of their enemies 2 Kings 3:18.
- H3213 yâlal (to howl): This root word for wailing or yelling is used to describe the people's reaction to the city's destruction. It is frequently associated with divine judgment, as in the command, "Howl ye; for the day of the LORD is at hand" Isaiah 13:6.
- H1897 hâgâh (to mourn): This word, which can also mean to meditate or mutter, describes the sound of grief for the ruined foundations. Elsewhere, it is used for positive contemplation, such as when one is to meditate on God's law Joshua 1:8.
- H5218 nâkêʼ (stricken): This term means smitten or afflicted. It describes the state of the foundations themselves, showing they have been divinely struck down. It can also describe emotional affliction, as in a wounded spirit Proverbs 18:14.
The theological weight of H808 is derived entirely from its singular, powerful context.
- Symbol of utter ruin: The targeting of the foundations signifies that the judgment is not superficial but total, aiming at the very core of the nation's security and existence.
- A cause for despair: The destruction of the foundation is met with profound expressions of grief, such as to howl H3213 and to mourn H1897, indicating a loss so complete that it leaves no hope.
- Tangible effect of judgment: The state of the foundations as stricken H5218 shows that divine judgment has a concrete and devastating effect on the physical world, dismantling what was thought to be permanent Isaiah 16:7.
In summary, while appearing only once, H808 offers a potent image of collapse and finality. It is not merely an architectural term but a symbol for the complete undoing of a nation's stability. Its use in Isaiah 16:7, surrounded by words of grief and destruction, firmly defines it as a term associated with the absolute consequences of divine judgment.
TRV