### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **bûwç**, represented by `{{H947}}`, is a primitive root used to convey the act of trampling. It appears **13 times** across **12 unique verses** in the Bible. Its meaning extends from the literal act of treading something underfoot to figurative concepts of loathing an object or being in a state of pollution.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical contexts, `{{H947}}` is most frequently used to describe the complete subjugation of enemies in warfare. Through God's power, Israel is able to **tread down** its adversaries ([[Psalms 60:12]], [[Psalms 108:13]]). This act symbolizes ultimate victory and dominance, as when God promises to **tread him under foot**, referring to the Assyrian invader [[Isaiah 14:25]]. The word also describes desecration, such as when adversaries have **trodden down** God's sanctuary [[Isaiah 63:18]] or when unfaithful pastors have **trodden** God's portion under foot [[Jeremiah 12:10]]. In a different sense, it describes a state of being **polluted**, as seen in God's description of the infant Israel in her blood [[Ezekiel 16:6]], or a state of loathing, where a full soul **loatheth** a honeycomb [[Proverbs 27:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concepts of conflict, opposition, and destruction associated with `{{H947}}`:
* `{{H5055}}` **nâgach** (a primitive root; to butt with the horns; figuratively, to war against; gore, push (down, -ing)): This term is used in parallel with `{{H947}}` to describe aggressive, warlike action against enemies, as seen in the declaration, "Through thee will we **push down** our enemies... will we **tread them under**" [[Psalms 44:5]].
* `{{H6862}}` **tsar** (an opponent (as crowding); adversary, afflicted(-tion), anguish, close, distress, enemy, flint, foe, narrow, small, sorrow, strait, tribulation, trouble): This word frequently identifies the object of the trampling action of `{{H947}}`, specifying the **enemies** or **adversaries** who are to be trodden down ([[Psalms 44:5]], [[Isaiah 63:18]]).
* `{{H7843}}` **shâchath** (a primitive root; to decay, i.e. (causatively) ruin (literally or figuratively); batter, cast off, corrupt(-er, thing), destroy(-er, -uction), lose, mar, perish, spill, spoiler, [idiom] utterly, waste(-r)): This word for destruction appears alongside `{{H947}}` when describing how unfaithful leaders have **destroyed** God's vineyard and **trodden** His portion under foot [[Jeremiah 12:10]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H947}}` is significant, highlighting themes of divine power and judgment.
* **Divine Warfare:** The act of treading down enemies is consistently attributed to God's power. It is "Through God" that victory is achieved, for "he it is that shall **tread down** our enemies" ([[Psalms 60:12]], [[Psalms 108:13]]). God Himself acts as the divine warrior who will **tread down** people in His anger [[Isaiah 63:6]].
* **Symbol of Desecration:** The word powerfully illustrates the concept of profaning what is holy or cherished. The trampling of God's sanctuary by adversaries is a profound violation [[Isaiah 63:18]], and the image of a carcass **trodden under feet** signifies ultimate defilement and contempt [[Isaiah 14:19]].
* **State of Helplessness:** `{{H947}}` is used to describe a state of being utterly defiled and in need of salvation. In Ezekiel, Israel is found **polluted** in its own blood, a condition from which only God's divine command, "Live," can rescue it [[Ezekiel 16:6]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H947}}` is a potent verb that signifies more than simple physical movement. It is a word of power, judgment, and subjugation. It illustrates the dynamic of divine authority overcoming opposition, as God treads down enemies himself or empowers His people to do so [[Zechariah 10:5]]. Concurrently, it expresses deep contempt and defilement, whether through the desecration of a holy place or the loathing felt by a sated soul [[Proverbs 27:7]], making it a key term for understanding concepts of victory, judgment, and pollution in scripture.
TRV