### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **bâdâl**, represented by `{{H915}}`, translates as a **part** or **piece**. It appears only **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the Bible, making its single usage highly specific and illustrative. Its meaning is tied to the concept of a fragment that has been separated from a larger whole.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H915}}` is in the prophetic message of [[Amos 3:12]]. The LORD **saith** `{{H559}}` that just as a **shepherd** `{{H7462}}` might rescue a tiny, mangled fragment from a lion—specifically a "**piece** of an ear"—so a remnant of Israel will be "taken out" `{{H5337}}` of Samaria. The word is used to describe the meager and almost worthless nature of what is saved, emphasizing the severity of the judgment facing the nation.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its only context help clarify its meaning:
* `{{H5337}}` **nâtsal** (to snatch away... deliver... rescue): This verb frames the action surrounding `{{H915}}`. It describes the shepherd who "taketh out" the piece and, in parallel, how Israel will be "taken out" from judgment [[Amos 3:12]]. The word is frequently used for God's deliverance of His people from trouble or enemies ([[Exodus 3:8]], [[Psalms 34:19]]).
* `{{H559}}` **ʼâmar** (to say): The context for `{{H915}}` is established as a divine declaration, beginning with "Thus **saith** the LORD" [[Amos 3:12]]. This root is fundamental to prophetic speech, communicating God's direct words and covenant promises ([[Isaiah 59:21]], [[Zechariah 4:6]]).
* `{{H7462}}` **râʻâh** (to tend a flock... shepherd): The agent performing the action in the illustration is the **shepherd** [[Amos 3:12]]. This term often serves as a metaphor for God's care over Israel [[Psalms 23:1]] and is also used to describe the nation's leaders, or pastors [[Jeremiah 23:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H915}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful image.
* **A Picture of Judgment:** The use of `{{H915}}` as a mangled "piece" highlights that the deliverance mentioned is not a glorious victory. Instead, it illustrates a rescue from near-total destruction, where what is saved is barely recognizable [[Amos 3:12]].
* **The Nature of the Remnant:** The word defines the state of the Israelite remnant. They are not saved in strength or wholeness but are instead like a useless fragment. This emphasizes that their rescue is an act of God who can **deliver** `{{H5337}}` even the smallest part.
* **Prophetic Illustration:** `{{H915}}` is the key object in a prophetic simile. The Lord, speaking `{{H559}}` through His prophet, uses the tangible image of a shepherd `{{H7462}}` and a tiny "piece" to communicate a complex spiritual truth about the condition of His people.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H915}}` is far more than a simple word for a part. Though used only once, its meaning as a "piece" is central to the prophetic warning in [[Amos 3:12]]. It vividly illustrates the grim reality of judgment, where the remnant is but a fragment, a testament to the severity of Israel's situation and the nature of a deliverance that snatches them from the brink of annihilation.
TRV