### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tiphletseth**, represented by `{{H8606}}`, conveys a sense of **terribleness** or fearfulness. It is an exceedingly rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its singular use describes a self-perceived formidability that leads to pride and deception.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole biblical appearance, `{{H8606}}` is found in a prophecy from the LORD `{{H3068}}` against a people whose own sense of **terribleness** has deceived them. This false confidence is tied to the pride `{{H2087}}` of their heart `{{H3820}}` and their seemingly secure dwelling in the clefts `{{H2288}}` of the rock `{{H5553}}`. They believe themselves to be as secure as an eagle `{{H5404}}` in its high nest `{{H7064}}`, but the LORD declares He will bring them down `{{H3381}}` from their lofty position [[Jeremiah 49:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context clarify the meaning of `{{H8606}}`:
* `{{H5377}}` **nâshâʼ** (deceive): This word is directly linked to **tiphletseth**, showing that the people's sense of terribleness was the very thing that led them astray and deluded them [[Jeremiah 49:16]]. It means to beguile or mentally delude.
* `{{H2087}}` **zâdôwn** (pride): This is presented as the companion to **terribleness**. It is defined as arrogance and is the attitude of the heart that leads to a fall [[Jeremiah 49:16]]. The same word is linked to contention [[Proverbs 13:10]] and shame [[Proverbs 11:2]].
* `{{H5553}}` **çelaʻ** (rock): This identifies the physical source of the people's false security. As a craggy rock or fortress, it represents a stronghold that they trust in, dwelling in its clefts `{{H2288}}` and believing it makes them safe [[Jeremiah 49:16]].
* `{{H3381}}` **yârad** (bring down): This word signifies the divine response to prideful **terribleness**. It means to descend or, causatively, to bring down, and it is the action the LORD `{{H3068}}` promises to take against those who exalt themselves [[Jeremiah 49:16]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8606}}` is focused on the danger of human pride.
* **The Deception of False Security:** The concept of **terribleness** is shown to be a source of self-deception `{{H5377}}`. It is a pride `{{H2087}}` based on physical strength and strategic location—dwelling in the "clefts of the rock" `{{H2288}}`—which creates a blinding arrogance.
* **Sovereignty Over Human Exaltation:** The passage demonstrates that no matter how high a person or people might place themselves, even "as high as the eagle" `{{H1361}}`, they are not above the authority of the LORD `{{H3068}}`. God's declaration, "I will bring thee down" `{{H3381}}`, affirms His ultimate power over all human pride.
* **The Heart as the Root of Pride:** The verse explicitly links **terribleness** with "the pride of thine heart" `{{H3820}}`, underscoring the biblical principle that the internal condition of the heart is the origin of sinful confidence and rebellion against God.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8606}}` **tiphletseth** is a potent, albeit rare, term for a self-ascribed **terribleness** that fosters a deceptive and fatal pride. Its single use in scripture serves as a stark warning, illustrating how reliance on one's own strength and secure position is an affront to God. It powerfully demonstrates the theological principle that the LORD `{{H3068}}` opposes the proud and will humble those who exalt themselves in their own hearts.
TRV