### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **bûwr**, represented by `{{H952}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to bore, i.e. (figuratively) examine; declare**. It is a rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, making its single context highly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H952}}` is in [[Ecclesiastes 9:1]], where the Preacher reflects on the nature of divine providence. After careful thought, he states, "For all this I considered in my heart even to **declare** all this, that the righteous, and the wise, and their works, are in the hand of God." The word here conveys an intentional declaration that comes after a period of deep examination. It is the verbal pronouncement of a conclusion reached through careful consideration of life's seemingly random events.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{H952}}` is enriched by several key words within its only verse of use:
* `{{H3045}}` **yâdaʻ**: A primitive root meaning **to know**. In [[Ecclesiastes 9:1]], while the Preacher can **declare** certain truths, he also states that "no man **knoweth**" the specifics of God's favor, highlighting the limits of human understanding.
* `{{H3820}}` **lêb**: This word for **heart** is used for feelings, will, and intellect. The declaration in [[Ecclesiastes 9:1]] originates from deep consideration "in my **heart**," indicating a conclusion reached after thorough internal reflection.
* `{{H2450}}` **châkâm**: Meaning **wise**, this term describes one of the groups, along with the righteous, whose fate is the subject of the declaration. The Preacher's insight is specifically directed toward the destiny of the **wise** [[Ecclesiastes 9:1]].
* `{{H3027}}` **yâd**: Defined as a **hand**, this word figuratively indicates power and control. The ultimate declaration is that the righteous and wise are "in the **hand** of God," a statement of divine sovereignty [[Ecclesiastes 9:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H952}}` is concentrated in its single, poignant usage.
* **Declaration of Sovereignty:** The primary function of the word in its biblical context is to declare the profound truth that, despite appearances, "the righteous, and the wise, and their works, are in the hand of God" [[Ecclesiastes 9:1]]. It affirms God's ultimate control over human destiny.
* **The Limits of Human Knowledge:** The act of declaring is immediately contrasted with what cannot be known. The Preacher can declare that God is in control, but he cannot declare whether a person experiences "love or hatred" from God based on their circumstances. This underscores a central theme in Ecclesiastes about the inscrutable nature of divine ways.
* **The Process of Reaching Truth:** The verse links consideration in the heart with the act of declaring. The use of `{{H952}}` is not a casual statement but the result of a deliberate intellectual and spiritual process of examination, modeling a pattern of thoughtful reflection before proclamation.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H952}}` **bûwr** provides a specific and focused concept: to declare a truth after deep examination. Its lone appearance in [[Ecclesiastes 9:1]] is pivotal, capturing the essence of wisdom literature. It simultaneously affirms the ability of humanity to arrive at and declare foundational truths, such as God's sovereignty, while also acknowledging the profound limits of human understanding in the face of divine mystery. The word marks the boundary between what can be discerned and what must be accepted by faith.
TRV