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 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.
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).
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.
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