from an unused root probably meaning to elongate; a monster (as preternaturally formed), i.e. a sea-serpent (or other huge marine animal); also a jackal (or other hideous land animal); dragon, whale. Compare תַּנִּין.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tan**, represented by `{{H8565}}`, is defined as a **monster**, **sea-serpent**, **jackal**, or **whale**, stemming from a root that suggests elongation. It appears **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the Bible. This term is used to describe a preternaturally formed or hideous animal, whether of the sea or land, and is closely compared to the word `{{H8577}}` **tannîyn**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The singular biblical appearance of `{{H8565}}` is in a prophetic lamentation against the king of Egypt. In Ezekiel's oracle, Pharaoh is depicted as a powerful and disruptive creature, likened to both a lion and a great sea animal. The verse states, "thou art like a young lion of the nations, and thou art as a **whale** in the seas: and thou camest forth with thy rivers, and troubledst the waters with thy feet, and fouledst their rivers" [[Ezekiel 32:2]]. Here, `{{H8565}}` contributes to the image of a formidable, chaotic force that represents the pride and power of Egypt.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the imagery used in the sole verse featuring `{{H8565}}`:
* `{{H8577}}` **tannîyn** (a marine or land monster, i.e. sea-serpent or jackal; dragon, sea-monster, serpent, whale): This word is used in conjunction with `{{H8565}}` in [[Ezekiel 32:2]]. Its similar definition highlights the monstrous and powerful nature of the creature being described. It is also used to represent formidable adversaries, such as the dragon God wounds [[Isaiah 51:9]] or the king of Babylon [[Jeremiah 51:34]].
* `{{H3715}}` **kᵉphîyr** (a young lion): This is the other creature Pharaoh is compared to in the same passage, "a **young lion** of the nations" [[Ezekiel 32:2]]. It symbolizes fierceness and strength, often representing the bold [[Proverbs 28:1]] or the predatory [[Nahum 2:13]].
* `{{H1471}}` **gôwy** (a foreign nation; hence, a Gentile; also (figuratively) a troop of animals, or a flight of locusts; Gentile, heathen, nation, people): This word frames the scope of Pharaoh's influence, describing him as a power among the **nations** [[Ezekiel 32:2]]. It is frequently used to refer to the Gentile nations in contrast to Israel.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8565}}` is derived entirely from its single, powerful use in prophecy.
* **Symbol of Arrogant Power:** The "whale" or monster represented by `{{H8565}}` serves as a potent symbol for a prideful Gentile king. Pharaoh's might is depicted as a chaotic force that troubles and fouls the waters, signifying the destructive nature of unchecked earthly power [[Ezekiel 32:2]].
* **Subject to Divine Judgment:** The word appears within a "lamentation" [[Ezekiel 32:2]], a prophecy foretelling downfall. By labeling Pharaoh with this term, the prophecy marks him and his kingdom as an entity that God will ultimately judge and subdue, just as God punishes other great "dragons" of the sea [[Isaiah 27:1]].
* **Chaos vs. Divine Order:** The imagery of a great sea monster often represents primordial chaos. In this context, `{{H8565}}` illustrates the threat that a worldly empire like Egypt poses to divine order, a threat that God Himself will confront and neutralize.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8565}}` is a rare but impactful word. Its solitary appearance in [[Ezekiel 32:2]] powerfully casts Pharaoh as a monstrous, chaotic entity whose worldly power disrupts order. Paired with related terms for a lion and a dragon, it creates a vivid picture of pagan might that is the focus of divine judgment. Though used only once, **tan** effectively demonstrates how scripture uses creaturely imagery to convey profound theological truths about pride, power, and God's sovereignty over the nations.
TRV