### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Tophteh** `{{H8613}}`, meaning a place of cremation or Tophet, appears just **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Though rare, its sole appearance paints a vivid and powerful picture of a place specifically prepared for fiery judgment. It is described as a place of immense and final destruction.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of **Tophteh** `{{H8613}}` is found in [[Isaiah 30:33]]. The verse describes this place as having been "ordained{H6186} of old{H865}" and specifically "prepared{H3559}" for "the king{H4428}". The physical description is one of immense scale; it is made "deep{H6009} and large{H7337}". Its fuel source is a great "pile{H4071}" consisting of "fire{H784} and much{H7235} wood{H6086}". The ignition of this pyre is a divine act, as "the breath{H5397} of the LORD{H3068}, like a stream{H5158} of brimstone{H1614}, doth kindle{H1197} it."
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context in [[Isaiah 30:33]] illuminate the nature of **Tophteh**:
* `{{H784}}` **'êsh** (fire): This is the primary element of Tophteh. The same word is used to describe God's presence in a pillar of **fire** [[Exodus 13:21]], His consuming nature [[Deuteronomy 9:3]], and the refining process for His people [[Zechariah 13:9]].
* `{{H1614}}` **gophrîyth** (brimstone): Described as inflammable resin or sulphur, this word is directly associated with divine judgment. The LORD rained **brimstone** and fire upon Sodom and Gomorrah [[Genesis 19:24]], and it is part of the portion for the wicked [[Psalms 11:6]].
* `{{H1197}}` **bâʻar** (to kindle, i.e. consume): This verb highlights the active, consuming nature of the fire in Tophteh. It is used to describe God's wrath being **kindled** [[Psalms 2:12]] and the word of the Lord being like a "burning{H1197} fire" in the heart [[Jeremiah 20:9]].
* `{{H4071}}` **mᵉdûwrâh** (pile for fire): This term refers to a pile of fuel. It is also used when the Lord declares he will make the **pile** for fire great in the bloody city [[Ezekiel 24:9]], linking it directly to divine wrath against a city.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8613}}` is focused on the certainty and severity of divine judgment.
* **Ordained Judgment:** **Tophteh** is not a random or natural disaster. The text states it is "ordained{H6186} of old{H865}" and "prepared{H3559}" [[Isaiah 30:33]]. This emphasizes that the judgment it represents is a deliberate, sovereign act of God that has been established and made ready.
* **Divine Power in Destruction:** The fire is ignited directly by God. It is "the breath{H5397} of the LORD{H3068}" that kindles the pile, demonstrating that this destruction is a direct outflow of His power, likened to an overwhelming "stream{H5158} of brimstone{H1614}" [[Isaiah 30:33]].
* **Judgment on Authority:** The text specifically notes that Tophteh is prepared "for the king{H4428}" [[Isaiah 30:33]]. This signifies that no one, regardless of earthly power or station, is exempt from the judgment of the LORD.
### Summary
In summary, **Tophteh** `{{H8613}}` serves as a potent, singular symbol of divinely ordained destruction by fire. Although mentioned only once, its detailed description in [[Isaiah 30:33]] provides a stark and unforgettable image of God's sovereign authority to execute judgment. It illustrates a place made deep and large, not by human hands, but prepared by God himself as a final consequence for those who stand in opposition to Him, including earthly kings.
TRV