### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tarʻêlâh**, represented by `{{H8653}}`, describes a state of **reeling, astonishment, trembling**. Derived from a root meaning "to reel," this term appears **3 times** in **3 unique verses**. It is used figuratively to convey a profound state of shock and helplessness, often as a result of divine action.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H8653}}` is consistently associated with the metaphor of a cup given by God. The people of Jerusalem `{{H3389}}` are depicted as having drunk from the hand `{{H3027}}` of the LORD `{{H3068}}` "the cup `{{H3563}}` of his fury `{{H2534}}`" and the "cup of **trembling**" [[Isaiah 51:17]]. This imagery powerfully illustrates a forced experience of judgment. Similarly, in Psalms, God is shown to have made his people `{{H5971}}` drink "the wine `{{H3196}}` of **astonishment**" in response to their hard things `{{H7186}}` [[Psalms 60:3]]. However, Isaiah also records God's promise to take `{{H3947}}` this "cup of **trembling**" away from his people, declaring they will drink `{{H8354}}` it no more `{{H3254}}` [[Isaiah 51:22]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the context in which **tarʻêlâh** appears:
* `{{H3563}}` **kôwç** (cup): This is the vessel from which the experience of trembling originates. It is a recurring image for a divinely appointed lot or portion, in this case, the LORD's fury [[Isaiah 51:17]].
* `{{H2534}}` **chêmâh** (fury): This word, meaning heat or anger, is identified as the content of the cup. Jerusalem drinks from the cup of trembling, which contains God's fury [[Isaiah 51:22]].
* `{{H3196}}` **yayin** (wine): In Psalms, the experience is described as drinking the "wine `{{H3196}}` of astonishment," emphasizing the intoxicating and disorienting nature of the judgment [[Psalms 60:3]].
* `{{H8354}}` **shâthâh** (to drink): This action signifies the reception of the divine judgment. The people have drunk the cup of trembling and are commanded to drink it no more, highlighting both the past suffering and future deliverance ([[Isaiah 51:17]], 51:22).
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H8653}}` is centered on the nature of divine judgment and restoration.
* **Divine Discipline:** The "cup of trembling" is a potent metaphor for God's judgment. It is not a random event but something administered from the very hand `{{H3027}}` of the LORD `{{H3068}}` [[Isaiah 51:17]].
* **Overwhelming Helplessness:** The effect of this cup is astonishment and reeling, a state of utter powerlessness. The command to "Awake, awake, stand up" suggests that this experience has left Jerusalem prostrate [[Isaiah 51:17]].
* **Sovereign Restoration:** The same God `{{H430}}` who gives the cup of trembling is the one who takes it away. He is the God who "pleadeth `{{H7378}}` the cause of his people," promising that they will never have to drink from it again [[Isaiah 51:22]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8653}}` **tarʻêlâh** is more than just a word for trembling; it is a theological concept. It vividly portrays the disorienting and incapacitating effect of God's righteous anger, using the powerful imagery of an intoxicating cup of fury. At the same time, its usage within the prophetic context provides a profound message of hope, showing that God's discipline is not final and that He is a Lord `{{H113}}` who ultimately removes the cup of trembling and restores his people.
TRV