### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shetseph**, represented by `{{H8241}}`, describes an outburst of anger, often translated as **little**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**, making it a highly specific term within the scriptures. Its definition suggests it is used for alliteration with the word for wrath, highlighting its specialized and poetic function.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical instance of `{{H8241}}` is found in [[Isaiah 54:8]]. In this verse, the LORD `{{H3068}}` declares, "In a **little** wrath I hid my face from thee for a moment." The word establishes the brief and contained nature of God's anger. This momentary action is immediately contrasted with the promise that follows: "but with everlasting kindness will I have mercy on thee, saith the LORD thy Redeemer" [[Isaiah 54:8]]. The context frames the "outburst" not as a final judgment, but as a fleeting prelude to an eternal promise of mercy and redemption.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context illuminate the meaning of `{{H8241}}`:
* `{{H7110}}` **qetseph** (wrath): This word for rage or indignation is used in direct connection with `{{H8241}}` in its only appearance. The Lord states He acted in "a little **wrath**" [[Isaiah 54:8]], showing the two terms work together to describe the nature of His displeasure.
* `{{H7281}}` **regaʻ** (moment): This term, meaning a very short space of time, further defines the brevity of the wrath described by `{{H8241}}`. God hides His face "for a **moment**" [[Isaiah 54:8]], emphasizing the temporary nature of the discipline.
* `{{H2617}}` **chêçêd** (kindness): This word provides the crucial contrast to the momentary wrath. It is defined as kindness, mercy, or favor. The promise of "everlasting **kindness**" in [[Isaiah 54:8]] stands in direct opposition to the "little wrath."
* `{{H5769}}` **ʻôwlâm** (everlasting): Meaning eternity or time out of mind, this word modifies "kindness" to show its eternal scope. It directly contrasts the temporary nature of the "little" wrath with the perpetual nature of God's mercy and salvation ([[Isaiah 54:8]], [[Isaiah 45:17]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8241}}` is derived entirely from its singular, powerful context.
* **The Brevity of Divine Discipline:** The use of `{{H8241}}` alongside `{{H7281}}` "moment" powerfully communicates that God's corrective anger is temporary and finite. It is a passing action within a much larger plan.
* **A Foil for Eternal Mercy:** The primary role of "little wrath" is to magnify the opposing concept of God's "everlasting kindness" `{{H2617}}` and His promise to have mercy `{{H7355}}`. The fleeting negative serves to emphasize the permanent positive.
* **The Redeemer's Promise:** This entire concept is delivered by "the LORD thy Redeemer" `{{H1350}}`. The temporary discipline comes from the same God who provides eternal redemption, framing the "outburst" as an act within a covenant relationship, not an act of final rejection [[Isaiah 54:8]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8241}}` **shetseph** is a rare term whose meaning is entirely defined by its sole appearance in [[Isaiah 54:8]]. It functions to describe a brief, contained outburst of divine wrath. Its significance lies not in the anger itself, but in how it serves as a dramatic contrast to the immense and unending kindness, mercy, and redemption promised by God. The word illustrates how a fleeting moment of divine discipline is enveloped by an eternal covenant of peace.
TRV