### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tanchûwm**, represented by `{{H8575}}`, means **compassion, solace, comfort, or consolation**. Derived from the root word `{{H5162}}` **nâcham**, which means to pity or console, `{{H8575}}` appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses**. It describes a deep comfort that addresses sorrow and distress.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H8575}}` is presented as a profound response to suffering. It is a divine provision, as when Eliphaz asks Job if the **consolations** of God are too small for him [[Job 15:11]]. This comfort can also be conveyed through human interaction, as Job asks his friends to let their speech be his **consolations** [[Job 21:2]]. In a state of inner turmoil, the psalmist finds that God's **comforts** delight his soul [[Psalms 94:19]]. The word is also tied to mourning rituals, such as the "cup of **consolation**" given to those grieving for a parent [[Jeremiah 16:7]]. In a prophetic context, it is depicted as a source of deep satisfaction and nourishment, like the **consolations** of Jerusalem that are compared to nurturing breasts [[Isaiah 66:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and application of `{{H8575}}`:
* `{{H5162}}` **nâcham** (comfort): The root of `{{H8575}}`, this word means to **pity, console or (reflexively) rue**. It is used in [[Jeremiah 16:7]] to describe the act of comforting those in mourning for the dead.
* `{{H3563}}` **kôwç** (cup): This term for a **cup, often figuratively, a lot**, is used to form the powerful image of "the cup of **consolation**" [[Jeremiah 16:7]], illustrating comfort as a tangible offering to the grieving.
* `{{H5315}}` **nephesh** (soul): This word for a **breathing creature, i.e. animal of (abstractly) vitality;...soul**, is the direct recipient of divine comfort in [[Psalms 94:19]], where God's comforts delight the soul.
* `{{H60}}` **ʼêbel** (mourning): Meaning **lamentation; mourning**, this word establishes the primary context in which consolation is needed, as seen in [[Jeremiah 16:7]] where the rituals of mourning include acts of comfort.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8575}}` is significant, highlighting the nature of divine and human solace.
* **Divine Source of Comfort:** The concept of the "**consolations** of God" [[Job 15:11]] establishes that true, sufficient comfort originates with Him. This is not a small or insignificant thing, but a powerful provision for the suffering.
* **Solace for Inner Turmoil:** `{{H8575}}` addresses not just external loss but internal distress. God’s **comforts** are able to bring delight to a soul overwhelmed by a "multitude of my thoughts" [[Psalms 94:19]].
* **Nourishment and Restoration:** The imagery in [[Isaiah 66:11]] portrays God's **consolations** as deeply satisfying and life-giving. Believers are invited to "suck, and be satisfied" as from a mother's breast, finding delight in the abundance of glory.
* **A Tangible Act of Compassion:** The "cup of **consolation**" [[Jeremiah 16:7]] shows that comfort is not merely an abstract feeling but is intended to be expressed through tangible actions within the community, especially in times of mourning.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8575}}` **tanchûwm** encapsulates a profound form of comfort and consolation that is both divinely sourced and humanly expressed. It moves beyond simple sympathy to describe a solace that can delight the soul in times of anxiety, provide tangible support during mourning, and offer life-giving spiritual nourishment. Its rare usage underscores the depth of the comfort it signifies, whether coming from the words of a friend or the hand of God Himself.
TRV