### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tâzaz**, represented by `{{H8456}}`, is a primitive root meaning to **lop off** or **cut down**. It appears only **1 time** in the Bible, signifying its highly specific application within scripture. Its singular use is found in a prophetic context, describing a decisive act of pruning or judgment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H8456}}` is in [[Isaiah 18:5]], amidst vivid agricultural imagery. The verse describes a moment just **afore** `{{H6440}}` the harvest `{{H7105}}`, when the bud `{{H6525}}` is perfect `{{H8552}}` and the sour grape `{{H1155}}` is ripening `{{H1580}}`. In this setting, the prophecy states that God will both "cut off `{{H3772}}` the sprigs `{{H2150}}` with pruning hooks `{{H4211}}`" and "take away `{{H5493}}` and **cut down** `{{H8456}}` the branches." The use of **tâzaz** here denotes a thorough and decisive removal, a complete lopping off.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context in [[Isaiah 18:5]] clarify its meaning:
* `{{H3772}}` **kârath** (to cut off, down or asunder): This word is used in parallel with `{{H8456}}`, describing the cutting off of sprigs. Its broader meaning includes to destroy or consume, and importantly, to make a covenant, as when the LORD made a covenant with Abram [[Genesis 15:18]].
* `{{H5493}}` **çûwr** (to turn off): Translated as "take away" in [[Isaiah 18:5]], this term signifies removal or departure. It is used both for God promising to take away sickness [[Exodus 23:25]] and for people who "are all gone aside" from righteousness [[Psalms 14:3]].
* `{{H7105}}` **qâtsîyr** (harvest): This word sets the timing for the action in [[Isaiah 18:5]]. It can refer to the harvest itself, the reaped crop, or the time of reaping. Figuratively, it can also mean a bough or branch, as seen in [[Isaiah 27:11]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8456}}` is derived entirely from its single, potent usage.
* **Divine Pruning and Judgment:** The act of 'lopping off' or 'cutting down' serves as a powerful metaphor for divine judgment. Just as a vinedresser removes unwanted branches, God is depicted as decisively intervening before an enemy's plans can come to fruition [[Isaiah 18:5]].
* **Sovereignty over Timing:** The action takes place "afore the harvest" `{{H7105}}`, when the "bud is perfect" `{{H8552}}`. This timing underscores God's sovereignty. He acts at the precise moment of His choosing, demonstrating complete control over the processes of growth and culmination.
* **A Destructive Act:** Unlike related words that can have a creative purpose, such as **kârath** `{{H3772}}` being used to "make a covenant" [[Jeremiah 31:31]], the use of **tâzaz** in this context is purely one of destruction and removal, highlighting the severity of the judgment.
### Summary
In summary, **tâzaz** `{{H8456}}` provides a sharp and specific image of lopping off or cutting down. Though it appears only once in scripture, its placement in [[Isaiah 18:5]] gives it significant weight, illustrating a divine act of judgment through the metaphor of pruning. It is part of a cluster of agricultural terms that together paint a picture of God's absolute sovereignty, intervening decisively before a harvest can be realized. Its meaning, while focused, contributes to the biblical understanding of God's power to act with perfect timing and purpose.
TRV