### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew noun tâqôwaʻ (תָּקוֹעַ, `{{H8619}}`) denotes a "trumpet" or a wind instrument used for producing sound. It is directly derived from the verbal root tâqaʻ (תָּקַע, `{{H8628}}`), which carries a primary meaning of "to strike," "to thrust," or, significantly for this context, "to blow" a trumpet. Thus, tâqôwaʻ inherently describes an instrument that is "blown" or "sounded." Its semantic range is quite narrow, focusing exclusively on this specific type of musical or signaling instrument, often associated with loud, piercing sounds. While other Hebrew terms exist for trumpets, tâqôwaʻ specifies the instrument through the action of its sounding.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word tâqôwaʻ (תָּקוֹעַ, `{{H8619}}`) is remarkably rare in the Hebrew Bible, appearing only once in the Masoretic Text:
* [[Ezekiel 7:14]]: "They have blown the trumpet and made everything ready, but no one goes to battle, for my wrath is on all their multitude."
In this sole occurrence, tâqôwaʻ is used in conjunction with its cognate verb tâqaʻ (תָּקְעוּ בַתָּקוֹעַ - "they have blown the trumpet"), creating a strong emphasis on the act of sounding the instrument. The context is dire: Ezekiel is prophesying the imminent and inescapable judgment upon Israel. The blowing of the trumpet (tâqôwaʻ) typically serves as a call to arms, a signal for assembling for battle or for warning of approaching danger. However, in this passage, despite the trumpet being sounded and preparations made, the people are paralyzed by divine wrath, unable to respond. The expected outcome of the trumpet's call—a unified charge into battle—is tragically absent, underscoring the severity and comprehensive nature of God's judgment. The trumpet's sound, usually a clarion call to action, becomes a mournful, futile echo.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding tâqôwaʻ is enhanced by examining its relationship to other terms and concepts:
* **tâqaʻ (תָּקַע, `{{H8628}}`)**: The foundational verb from which tâqôwaʻ is derived. This verb describes the act of blowing the trumpet, but also has broader meanings like "to strike," "to clap," "to pitch (a tent)," or "to drive (a nail)." Its connection to tâqôwaʻ highlights the active process of sounding the instrument.
* **shôphâr (שׁוֹפָר, `{{H7782}}`)**: This is the most common Hebrew word for "trumpet" or "ram's horn." The shôphâr held significant religious and cultic importance, used for proclaiming new moons and festivals, signaling war, and announcing God's presence (e.g., [[Exodus 19:16]]).
* **chatsotsᵉrâh (חֲצֹצְרָה, `{{H2689}}`)**: Refers specifically to the silver trumpets made by Moses, as described in [[Numbers 10]]. These trumpets were used for summoning the congregation, directing movements, and signaling during war and worship.
* **Concepts of Signaling and Warning**: All these trumpet-related words are intrinsically linked to the concepts of signaling, warning, assembling, and initiating action, particularly in military or ceremonial contexts. The sound of the trumpet often signified a moment of crisis, transition, or divine intervention.
### Theological Significance
The singular appearance of tâqôwaʻ in [[Ezekiel 7:14]] imbues it with a profound, albeit specific, theological significance. In a book saturated with prophecies of judgment and restoration, this verse stands out as a stark illustration of divine sovereignty. The blowing of the tâqôwaʻ, a human act of preparation for self-defense, is rendered utterly impotent by God's wrath.
Theological implications include:
1. **Futility of Human Efforts Against Divine Judgment**: Even the most urgent and universal call to arms, symbolized by the trumpet's blast, is meaningless when God's hand is against a people. It underscores that no human preparation or military might can withstand the determined judgment of the Almighty.
2. **The Depth of God's Wrath**: The inability of the people to respond to the trumpet's call vividly portrays the paralyzing effect of divine judgment. It is not merely an external threat but an internal incapacitation wrought by God's fury.
3. **A Symbol of Unanswered Alarm**: Unlike the trumpets that heralded God's presence or called His people to worship, the tâqôwaʻ in Ezekiel sounds an alarm that goes tragically unanswered, highlighting a nation spiritually deadened and unable to respond to its impending doom. It serves as a somber reminder of the consequences of persistent rebellion against God.
### Summary
The Hebrew word tâqôwaʻ (תָּקוֹעַ, `{{H8619}}`), derived from tâqaʻ (`{{H8628}}`) meaning "to blow," refers to a "trumpet." Its rare occurrence, found only once in [[Ezekiel 7:14]], gives it a unique and poignant theological weight. In this solitary instance, the tâqôwaʻ is blown as a signal for battle, yet the people are unable to respond due to the overwhelming wrath of God. This depiction contrasts sharply with other biblical trumpets like the shôphâr (`{{H7782}}`) or chatsotsᵉrâh (`{{H2689}}`), which often signify divine presence, covenant, or assembly. Instead, the tâqôwaʻ in Ezekiel becomes a powerful symbol of the futility of human preparation and the inescapable nature of divine judgment when a nation has fallen under God's righteous condemnation. It underscores the ultimate sovereignty of God over human affairs and the tragic consequences of spiritual paralysis in the face of His wrath.
TRV