### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tâm**, represented by `{{H8535}}`, describes a state of being **complete** or **perfect**. It appears 13 times across 13 unique verses. Its meaning extends beyond simple wholeness to encompass moral piety, uprightness, and a gentle nature, being translated as "perfect," "undefiled," and "plain."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H8535}}` is used to describe exceptional moral character. Job is the preeminent example, a man described by God as **perfect** and upright, one who feared God and eschewed evil ([[Job 1:8]], [[Job 2:3]]). The term also characterizes Jacob as a **plain** man who dwelt in tents, contrasting him with his brother Esau [[Genesis 25:27]]. In the Song of Solomon, it is used as an intimate term of endearment, "my **undefiled**," highlighting purity and preciousness [[Song of Solomon 5:2]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words build upon the concept of moral completeness:
* `{{H3477}}` **yâshâr** (straight; upright): This word is frequently paired with `tâm` to describe a person of moral integrity. Job is consistently described as both **perfect** and **upright** [[Job 1:1]].
* `{{H3373}}` **yârêʼ** (fearing; morally, reverent): The character of a **perfect** man includes a reverence for God. This attribute is central to Job’s description, as one that **feared** God [[Job 1:8]].
* `{{H8538}}` **tummâh** (innocence; integrity): This term for integrity is directly linked to being **perfect**. Even after suffering, Job is commended for holding fast to his **integrity** [[Job 2:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8535}}` is significant, exploring the nature of human righteousness and its relationship with God.
* **The Divine Standard:** The term is used by God Himself to define the ideal servant. Job is presented as the epitome of a **perfect** man, setting a standard of piety that involves being upright, fearing God, and turning away from evil [[Job 2:3]].
* **The Paradox of Suffering:** The word challenges simplistic theology. While the psalmist states the end of the **perfect** man is peace [[Psalms 37:37]], the book of Job demonstrates that a **perfect** man can suffer intensely. Job observes that God "destroyeth the **perfect** and the wicked" [[Job 9:22]], forcing a deeper contemplation of divine justice.
* **Relational Purity:** In the Song of Solomon, the word shifts from a moral descriptor to a term of cherished intimacy. The beloved is called "my **undefiled**," highlighting a state of purity and exclusive devotion that is precious and worthy of praise [[Song of Solomon 6:9]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8535}}` **tâm** is a rich term describing a state of completeness that is moral, relational, and personal. It defines the character of Job as **perfect** and upright, the nature of Jacob as **plain** and unassuming, and the beloved in Song of Solomon as singularly **undefiled**. Far more than a simple descriptor, **tâm** conveys a wholeness of character recognized by both God and humanity, embodying integrity, reverence, and cherished purity in scripture.
TRV