### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **bûwqâh**, represented by `{{H950}}`, means **emptiness** or **empty**. It is derived from an unused root word meaning to be hollow. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, making its single instance particularly impactful.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H950}}` is found in a vivid prophetic description of utter devastation in [[Nahum 2:10]]. The verse declares, "She is **empty** `{{H950}}`, and void, and waste." This establishes the word as the beginning of a powerful three-part declaration of total ruin. The context describes the terrifying physical and emotional consequences of this desolation, where "the heart melteth, and the knees smite together, and much pain is in all loins."
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of `{{H950}}` is intensified by the words used alongside it in its only biblical appearance:
* `{{H4003}}` **mᵉbûwqâh** (void): This term for **emptiness** immediately follows `{{H950}}`, reinforcing the concept of a complete void [[Nahum 2:10]].
* `{{H1110}}` **bâlaq** (waste): Defined as to **annihilate** or make **waste**, this word completes the triad of destruction, signifying that the location is not only empty but has been actively laid to waste [[Nahum 2:10]].
* `{{H4549}}` **mâçaç** (melt away): This word describes the visceral human reaction to the devastation, as the "heart **melteth**" in fear and grief [[Nahum 2:10]].
* `{{H2479}}` **chalchâlâh** (pain): Signifying **writhing** or terror, this word is used to describe the "much **pain**" that seizes the people as a result of the judgment [[Nahum 2:10]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H950}}` is concentrated in its singular, powerful use as an illustration of divine judgment.
* **Total Desolation:** The term signifies a comprehensive and absolute judgment. The **emptiness** it describes is not a peaceful state but a horrifying void left after complete annihilation.
* **A Portrait of Terror:** The word is inextricably linked to the physiological effects of terror. The **emptiness** described in [[Nahum 2:10]] is the direct cause of melting hearts, smiting knees, and faces gathering **blackness** `{{H6289}}`.
* **Prophetic Fulfillment:** As part of a prophetic oracle, `{{H950}}` serves as a stark warning of the consequences of defying God. The state of being **empty**, void, and waste is presented as the ultimate end for those under judgment.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H950}}` is a potent, albeit rare, biblical word. Its single appearance in [[Nahum 2:10]] paints an unforgettable picture of absolute ruin. Paired with other words of desolation, **bûwqâh** defines **emptiness** not as a simple absence, but as the terrifying and complete outcome of divine judgment that devastates both a place and its people.
TRV