### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Tammûwz**, represented by `{{H8542}}`, refers to a Phoenician deity. Its derivation is uncertain. This name appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, marking its significance as a specific example of idolatry condemned in scripture.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole biblical appearance of `{{H8542}}` is in the prophetic visions of Ezekiel. In a vision, the prophet is brought to the entrance of the LORD's temple and is shown a scene of profound apostasy: "at the door of the gate of the LORD'S house which was toward the north... there sat women weeping for **Tammuz**" [[Ezekiel 8:14]]. The context highlights this act as a grievous abomination taking place within the sacred precincts of God's own dwelling.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several words from the surrounding verse provide critical context for the meaning of this event:
* `{{H1058}}` **bâkâh** (to weep): This is the action associated with the worship of Tammuz. It describes a ritual lamentation or mourning, which contrasts sharply with the weeping of repentance seen elsewhere in scripture [[Joel 2:17]].
* `{{H802}}` **'ishshâh** (a woman): This word identifies the specific participants in the idolatrous ritual. Women are seen carrying out the weeping for this false god at the temple gate [[Ezekiel 8:14]].
* `{{H1004}}` **bayith** (a house): The location of this rite is the LORD's **house** [[Ezekiel 8:14]], emphasizing the severity of the transgression. This word is foundational to Israel's identity, representing family, the nation, and the temple itself [[Joshua 24:15]].
* `{{H3427}}` **yâshab** (to sit down, dwell): The women were not merely passing by but were seated, indicating a settled and intentional act of worship. This root can also mean to dwell, underscoring the profane presence they had established at the temple [[Ezekiel 8:14]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8542}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful appearance.
* **Idolatry within a Sacred Space:** The primary theological point is the defilement of God's temple. The worship of **Tammuz** at the very gate of the LORD's house demonstrates the depth of Israel's spiritual corruption [[Ezekiel 8:14]].
* **Misdirected Worship:** The act of weeping, a profound expression of grief or repentance [[2 Kings 22:19]], is here directed toward a false deity. This ritual for **Tammuz** represents a perversion of true worship and emotion that rightfully belongs to the LORD alone.
* **A Cause for Judgment:** The vision of the women weeping for **Tammuz** is presented to Ezekiel as one of several "abominations" that provoked the LORD [[Ezekiel 8:14]]. It serves as a specific piece of evidence for why judgment was coming upon Jerusalem.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8542}}` **Tammûwz** functions in scripture as a potent symbol of idolatry. Though mentioned only once, its context is stark and unforgettable. The image of women weeping for a pagan god at the gate of the LORD's house serves as a timeless warning against spiritual adultery and the defilement of what has been consecrated to God.
TRV