### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **bâdâd**, represented by `{{H910}}`, describes a state of being separate, alone, or solitary. Derived from a root meaning to be separate, it appears **11 times** across **11 unique verses**. The term carries a dual sense, signifying both the desolation of judgment and the unique, set-apart status of God's people.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H910}}` is used to convey two primary conditions. Firstly, it depicts a state of desolation and judgment. The city of Jerusalem is described as sitting **solitary** `{{H910}}` after its downfall, like a **widow** `{{H490}}` who was once full of **people** `{{H5971}}` [[Lamentations 1:1]]. Similarly, a once **defenced** `{{H1219}}` city will become **desolate** `{{H910}}` and **forsaken** `{{H5800}}` [[Isaiah 27:10]]. Secondly, it denotes a position of unique privilege and divine appointment. Israel is prophesied to dwell in **safety** `{{H983}}` **alone** `{{H910}}`, distinct from other **nations** `{{H1471}}` ([[Deuteronomy 33:28]], [[Numbers 23:9]]). This separateness is also seen in the context of ritual purity, where a person with a **plague** `{{H5061}}` must dwell **alone** `{{H910}}` [[Leviticus 13:46]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illustrate the concept of separation and solitude:
* `{{H1219}}` **bâtsar** (to be isolated; fenced, fortify): This word often describes a state of security that can be undone, leading to desolation. A **defenced** `{{H1219}}` city can become **desolate** `{{H910}}` under judgment [[Isaiah 27:10]].
* `{{H2351}}` **chûwts** (outside, outdoors): This term defines the physical location of separation. An unclean person is commanded to dwell **alone** `{{H910}}`, with his habitation **without** `{{H2351}}` the camp [[Leviticus 13:46]].
* `{{H5800}}` **ʻâzab** (to forsake, leave): This action is a direct cause of the desolation described by **bâdâd**. A habitation becomes **desolate** `{{H910}}` precisely because it has been **forsaken** `{{H5800}}` and **left** `{{H5800}}` like a wilderness [[Isaiah 27:10]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H910}}` is significant, highlighting different aspects of one's relationship with God and community.
* **Covenantal Separation:** Being **alone** is a mark of Israel's special status. The people are to dwell **alone** `{{H910}}`, not to be **reckoned** `{{H2803}}` among the nations, as a sign of their unique covenant with God [[Numbers 23:9]]. This is reinforced by the statement that the **LORD** `{{H3068}}` **alone** `{{H910}}` led his people [[Deuteronomy 32:12]].
* **Condition of Judgment:** Solitude can be a direct result of divine punishment. A city or person can be made **solitary** `{{H910}}` as a consequence of sin [[Lamentations 1:1]]. Prophets like Jeremiah experienced this isolation personally, sitting **alone** `{{H910}}` because they were filled with God's **indignation** `{{H2195}}` [[Jeremiah 15:17]].
* **State of Personal Trust:** While often negative, being alone can also reflect profound trust in God. The psalmist can lay down in **peace** `{{H7965}}` because the LORD **only** `{{H910}}` makes him dwell in **safety** `{{H983}}` [[Psalms 4:8]]. In suffering, one can sit **alone** `{{H910}}` and keep **silence** `{{H1826}}`, bearing what has been placed upon him [[Lamentations 3:28]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H910}}` is a powerful word that conveys more than mere physical solitude. It captures the profound biblical themes of divine election and judgment. To be **bâdâd** can mean to be set apart for blessing and a unique relationship with God, or it can mean to be isolated due to sin, suffering, or divine wrath. Its meaning is defined by whether one is alone *with* God or separated *from* the community He has blessed.
TRV