### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **taʻălûwl**, represented by `{{H8586}}`, describes concepts of caprice, vexation, and delusion. Concretely, it can refer to a tyrant or a babe. It appears only **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, used to illustrate specific forms of divine judgment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two uses of `{{H8586}}` highlight its dual meaning. In [[Isaiah 3:4]], it is translated as **babes**, signifying a judgment where God will give children to be princes, and unqualified, capricious leaders will rule over the people. In [[Isaiah 66:4]], it is used as **delusions**. God declares He will choose their **delusions** and bring their fears upon them as a direct consequence of their disobedience, because when He called and spoke, they did not hear but instead chose to do evil.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context of `{{H8586}}`:
* `{{H4910}}` **mâshal** (to rule): This primitive root is used to describe the action of the **babes**, who "shall rule over" the people as a form of judgment [[Isaiah 3:4]].
* `{{H8269}}` **sar** (prince): This term for a head person or captain is the title given to the children who will lead, linking the concept of **babes** to a position of authority [[Isaiah 3:4]].
* `{{H977}}` **bâchar** (to choose): This word is central to the judgment in [[Isaiah 66:4]], where God states He will **choose** their delusions because the people **chose** to do what displeased Him.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8586}}` is centered on the nature of divine judgment.
* **Judgment Through Ineffective Leadership:** The word is used to describe a punishment where societal structure is upended by the appointment of incompetent and capricious rulers, described as **babes** who shall rule [[Isaiah 3:4]].
* **Consequences of Willful Disobedience:** In [[Isaiah 66:4]], **delusions** are presented as the direct result of Israel's choice to ignore God. Because they did not answer when called or hear when spoken to, God gives them over to their own deceptions.
* **Divine Sovereignty in Judgment:** The context shows that this state of chaos is not accidental. God actively "will give" children to be princes and "will choose" their delusions, demonstrating His sovereign hand in executing judgment in response to sin.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8586}}` is a rare but potent word that conveys a state of vexation and disorder. Though used only twice, it powerfully illustrates divine judgment as either the imposition of chaotic, immature leadership or the ratifying of a people's self-chosen **delusions**. In both cases, it signifies a troubling state that results from turning away from God's call.
TRV