### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **behâlâh**, represented by `{{H928}}`, describes a state of **panic, destruction; terror, trouble**. Derived from a root meaning to panic, it appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses**. It consistently denotes an overwhelming and sudden calamity, often as a result of divine judgment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H928}}` is primarily a term of consequence. In Leviticus, God warns that He will appoint **terror** `{{H928}}` as a punishment for disobedience, alongside disease and agricultural failure [[Leviticus 26:16]]. The Psalms describe how God consumed the years of a disobedient generation in **trouble** `{{H928}}` [[Psalms 78:33]]. Similarly, Jeremiah depicts the sudden arrival of **terrors** `{{H928}}` upon a city as part of a divine judgment [[Jeremiah 15:8]]. The only instance of its use in a positive context is its absence, where in a time of blessing, people will no longer "bring forth for **trouble**" [[Isaiah 65:23]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the scope of `{{H928}}`:
* `{{H6597}}` **pithʼôwm** (suddenly): This adverb is used with `{{H928}}` to emphasize the instantaneous and shocking nature of the terror that befalls a city [[Jeremiah 15:8]].
* `{{H7703}}` **shâdad** (to ravage; destroy(-er), spoil(-er)): This word describes the agent of destruction, the "spoiler" who brings the terrors associated with `{{H928}}` [[Jeremiah 15:8]].
* `{{H1892}}` **hebel** (vanity): This term for emptiness is used in parallel with `{{H928}}`, suggesting that a life ending in trouble is ultimately a life spent in vanity [[Psalms 78:33]].
* `{{H7385}}` **rîyq** (in vain): This word appears alongside `{{H928}}`, linking the concept of terror and trouble to the futility of human effort, such as sowing seed [[Leviticus 26:16]] or laboring [[Isaiah 65:23]] for a worthless outcome.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H928}}` is significant, highlighting several key themes:
* **Divine Judgment:** The word is almost exclusively used to describe a consequence delivered by God in response to sin or disobedience. It is not a random event but a specific and appointed calamity ([[Leviticus 26:16]], [[Psalms 78:33]]).
* **Sudden Calamity:** The panic and destruction of `{{H928}}` are characterized by their abruptness. This underscores the powerlessness of those experiencing it and the swiftness of divine action [[Jeremiah 15:8]].
* **The Reversal of the Curse:** The promise in Isaiah that labor will no longer be for **trouble** `{{H928}}` presents its absence as a sign of God's ultimate blessing and restoration. Peace and security are defined by freedom from this kind of terror.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H928}}` is a potent term that conveys more than simple difficulty. It signifies a terrifying, sudden, and destructive event that serves as a direct consequence of divine judgment. Its usage illustrates the severe outcome of disobedience, while its promised removal serves as a powerful symbol of God's redemptive blessing and peace.
TRV