### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tâvâh**, represented by `{{H8428}}`, is a primitive root used to mean **to grieve** or **limit**. It appears only **1 times** in **1 unique verses**, making its single usage a point of significant focus. The term carries the idea of setting a boundary or mark, thereby confining or distressing.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H8428}}` is in [[Psalms 78:41]], which describes the rebellious actions of Israel. The verse states, "Yea, they turned back and tempted God, and **limited** the Holy One of Israel." In this context, the act of "limiting" God is the culmination of a cycle of disbelief where the people turned back from Him `{{H7725}}`, and put Him to the test `{{H5254}}`. Instead of trusting in His infinite power, they imposed their own boundaries on what He could or would do.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its only context in [[Psalms 78:41]] help to clarify the meaning of `{{H8428}}`:
* `{{H7725}}` **shûwb** (to turn back): This primitive root signifies a retreat or turning away. It is used in [[Psalms 78:41]] to describe the first step in Israel's offense, setting the stage for their act of limiting God.
* `{{H5254}}` **nâçâh** (to test; by implication, to attempt): This word describes the provocation that followed turning away. Israel's testing of God was a direct challenge to His authority and power, which is synonymous with limiting Him [[Psalms 78:41]].
* `{{H6918}}` **qâdôwsh** (holy): This term, meaning sacred, is used as a title for God. By identifying the one being limited as "the Holy One of Israel," the text emphasizes the severity and sacrilege of the action [[Psalms 78:41]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8428}}` is concentrated in its singular, powerful use. It highlights a critical aspect of humanity's relationship with the divine.
* **The Offense of Unbelief:** The action of "limiting" God is presented as a direct consequence of disbelief. It is tied to Israel turning back `{{H7725}}` and tempting God `{{H5254}}`, suggesting that a lack of faith can lead to imposing human constraints on the Almighty `{{H410}}`.
* **Grieving God:** The base definition of `{{H8428}}` includes the meaning "to grieve." This implies that the act of limiting the "Holy One of Israel" `{{H6918}}` `{{H3478}}` is not just a passive failure but an active offense that causes grief to God.
* **A Warning Against Setting Boundaries:** The use of `{{H8428}}` in [[Psalms 78:41]] serves as a stark warning against defining or restricting God's power and willingness to act on behalf of His people. It contrasts human doubt with divine omnipotence.
### Summary
In summary, **tâvâh** `{{H8428}}` is a uniquely focused term whose single biblical appearance carries immense theological significance. It captures the profound spiritual error of placing human limitations upon the infinite God. As seen in [[Psalms 78:41]], this action is the result of a rebellious heart that turns back and tests God, ultimately grieving the "Holy One of Israel" by failing to trust in His boundless nature.
TRV