### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **bûwl**, represented by `{{H944}}`, is defined as **produce (of the earth, etc.); food, stock**. It is a form of the word יְבוּל. Appearing only **2 times** in **2 unique verses**, its limited usage presents two distinct and contrasting meanings within scripture.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical occurrences, `{{H944}}` is used in two different contexts. First, it refers to the natural provision of the earth, as seen in Job where the mountains are said to bring forth **food** for the beasts of the field [[Job 40:20]]. This usage connects the word to sustenance and the created order. The second instance portrays a dramatically different meaning. In Isaiah's critique of idolatry, the word is translated as **stock**, referring to the block of wood from a tree that is fashioned into an idol, an object to which a person would "fall down" [[Isaiah 44:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which `{{H944}}` appears:
* `{{H2022}}` **har** (a mountain or range of hills): This word establishes the source of the **food** in the book of Job, highlighting that even the mountains bring forth produce [[Job 40:20]].
* `{{H6086}}` **ʻêts** (a tree): This identifies the origin of the material in Isaiah. The idol is made from the **stock** of a tree, a created object that is then wrongfully worshipped [[Isaiah 44:19]].
* `{{H8441}}` **tôwʻêbah** (abomination): This term describes the end result of misusing the **stock** of a tree. What should be simple wood is made into something morally disgusting and idolatrous [[Isaiah 44:19]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H944}}` comes from its contrasting applications:
* **Divine Provision:** In Job, the word illustrates God's sovereignty over creation and His role as the provider of sustenance for all living things. The mountains themselves yield **food**, demonstrating a world ordered by its Creator [[Job 40:20]].
* **Human Corruption:** In Isaiah, the word highlights the folly of idolatry. It points to the absurdity of taking a simple product of the earth, a **stock** of wood, and elevating it to the status of a god to be worshipped [[Isaiah 44:19]].
* **Creation vs. Abomination:** The two uses of `{{H944}}` create a stark contrast between a natural product of the earth as intended for life and that same product when perverted by human hands into an object of false worship, which is called an **abomination** [[Isaiah 44:19]].
### Summary
In summary, despite its rare appearance, `{{H944}}` carries significant meaning. It encapsulates a powerful dichotomy in scripture: the world as God's good provision versus humanity's capacity to corrupt that provision. The word **bûwl** serves as a potent reminder of the difference between receiving the produce of the earth with gratitude and foolishly worshipping the stock of a tree as a deity.
TRV