### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tarbûwth**, represented by `{{H8635}}`, means **increase** or **progeny** and is derived from a root meaning "multiplication." This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its singular use provides a pointed and specific meaning related to the continuation of a negative legacy.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole biblical appearance of `{{H8635}}` is in [[Numbers 32:14]], during a confrontation between Moses and the tribes of Reuben and Gad. Moses rebukes them, fearing they will repeat the faithlessness of their fathers who refused to enter the Promised Land. He declares, "And, behold, ye are risen up in your fathers' stead, an **increase** of sinful men, to augment yet the fierce anger of the LORD toward Israel." Here, **tarbûwth** is not a blessing of growth but a curse—a new generation that multiplies the sin of the previous one, thereby increasing God's wrath.
### Related Words & Concepts
The specific context of `{{H8635}}` is sharpened by several related words within its only verse:
* `{{H2400}}` **chaṭṭâʼ** (criminal, or one accounted guilty): This word defines the nature of the "increase," identifying the group as **sinful** men. The multiplication described is one of moral failure, not just of population. The LORD's judgment is often directed at such **sinners** [[Isaiah 13:9]].
* `{{H5595}}` **çâphâh** (to add, augment, consume): This verb reveals the direct consequence of this sinful progeny. Their actions serve to **augment** or add to God's anger, showing that generational sin has an escalating effect [[Isaiah 30:1]].
* `{{H2740}}` **chârôwn** (a burning of anger; fierce(-ness)): This term describes the kind of anger being provoked. It is not mild irritation but a **fierce** wrath, a type of divine displeasure that leads to severe judgment [[Zephaniah 3:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8635}}` is focused on the danger of compounding sin across generations.
* **Negative Progeny:** The word powerfully illustrates the concept of a "progeny of sin." It highlights the tragic reality that a new generation can inherit and even multiply the failings of their **fathers** `{{H1}}` instead of learning from them [[Numbers 32:14]].
* **The Escalation of Sin:** Its use demonstrates that rebellion is not static. The "increase" of sinful **men** `{{H582}}` actively serves to **augment** `{{H5595}}` divine displeasure, implying that unrepentant sin accumulates over time and invites a stronger response from God.
* **Provoking Divine Wrath:** The term is inextricably linked to the **fierce** `{{H2740}}` **anger** `{{H639}}` of the **LORD** `{{H3068}}`. It serves as a stark warning that the growth of sinfulness within the covenant community of **Israel** `{{H3478}}` directly leads to an intensification of divine judgment.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8635}}` is a highly specialized word whose single appearance delivers a potent message. Far from being a neutral term for "increase," **tarbûwth** in its biblical context signifies a destructive multiplication—a new generation of **sinful** men who amplify the guilt of their ancestors. It encapsulates the solemn biblical theme of generational accountability and the grave consequences of perpetuating a legacy of rebellion against God.
TRV