### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tâqaph**, represented by `{{H8630}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to overpower** or **prevail (against)**. It is a rare term, appearing only **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. Its usage consistently describes a force or entity overcoming another, whether through affliction, divine power, or personal strength.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical appearances, `{{H8630}}` is used to illustrate the concept of being overpowered in different contexts. In Job, the word describes the overwhelming force of suffering, where trouble and anguish **prevail** against a person like a king ready for battle [[Job 15:24]]. It is also used to express God's ultimate and unending power over humanity, as Job states, "Thou **prevailest** for ever against him, and he passeth" [[Job 14:20]]. In Ecclesiastes, the word highlights the vulnerability of a person standing alone, stating that if someone can **prevail** against one person, two can offer resistance [[Ecclesiastes 4:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which **tâqaph** is used:
* `{{H5975}}` **ʻâmad** (to stand, in various relations... withstand): This word is used as a direct contrast to being overpowered in [[Ecclesiastes 4:12]], where two people can **withstand** an attacker who might prevail against one.
* `{{H1204}}` **bâʻath** (to fear; affright, be (make) afraid, terrify, trouble.): Used in the same verse as `{{H8630}}`, this word describes the emotional result of being prevailed against, as trouble and anguish **make him afraid** [[Job 15:24]].
* `{{H2339}}` **chûwṭ** (a string... cord, fillet, line, thread.): This word is found in the famous illustration of strength in unity, where a threefold **cord** is not quickly broken, providing a defense against a force that might otherwise prevail [[Ecclesiastes 4:12]].
### Theological Significance
The concept of `{{H8630}}` carries significant weight in its few appearances, exploring themes of power, vulnerability, and resilience.
* **The Power of Adversity:** In the book of Job, to **prevail** is associated with the inescapable force of trouble and anguish, which can overwhelm a person with the force of a king in battle [[Job 15:24]].
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The word is used to describe God’s absolute and eternal power over human existence. Job acknowledges that God **prevailest** forever against man, changing his countenance and sending him away, highlighting mortality in the face of divine might [[Job 14:20]].
* **Strength in Companionship:** Ecclesiastes uses the threat of being prevailed against to teach a principle of wisdom. While one person may be overpowered, strength is found in numbers, as "two shall withstand him" and a "threefold cord is not quickly broken" [[Ecclesiastes 4:12]].
### Summary
In summary, **tâqaph** `{{H8630}}` is a potent, though rarely used, term for overpowering force. It vividly portrays the experience of being overcome by affliction, the finality of God's power over human life, and the practical wisdom of finding strength and resistance through unity. Its few uses in scripture provide a focused look at the dynamics of power, from human vulnerability to divine sovereignty.
TRV