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.
The single biblical instance of shetseph 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.
The theological weight of shetseph is derived entirely from its singular, powerful context.
- The Brevity of Divine Discipline: The use of shetseph 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.
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.
