The Hebrew word bâzâʼ, represented by H958, is a primitive root with the meaning to spoil, and probably to cleave. It is a rare term, appearing only 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible, both within the same chapter. Its meaning is specifically applied to the action of rivers upon a land.
In its biblical usage, H958 is found exclusively in the book of Isaiah. It appears in a prophetic description of a particular nation. This nation is characterized as "scattered and peeled," "terrible," and "trodden down" Isaiah 18:2. The word bâzâʼ is used to describe the condition of their territory in the phrase "whose land the rivers have spoiled" (Isaiah 18:2, Isaiah 18:7). This links the physical state of the land directly to the identity of its people.
Several related words appear alongside H958 in Isaiah 18, painting a detailed picture of the nation being described:
- H4900 mâshak (to draw): This word is used to describe the nation as being "scattered" Isaiah 18:2. Its primitive root meaning, "to draw," can imply being drawn out or extended.
- H4178 môwrâṭ (peeled): This term describes the people as "peeled" Isaiah 18:2, suggesting a state of being stripped or made bare. It contributes to the image of a nation that has endured hardship.
- H6978 qav-qav (meted out): The nation is also described as being "meted out" Isaiah 18:7. This term, derived from a word for a fastening, implies being measured or divided.
- H4001 mᵉbûwçâh (a trampling): This word, meaning "treading (trodden) down (under foot)," is used to describe the nation's oppressed condition, which exists in tandem with its land being spoiled by rivers Isaiah 18:7.
The theological context of H958 is tied to its prophetic placement.
- Land and People: The word illustrates the profound connection between the state of a nation's land and the condition of its people. The land being "spoiled" is a key descriptor of a people who are simultaneously "trodden down" Isaiah 18:7.
- Natural Forces in Prophecy: The agent of the spoiling is identified as "the rivers" Isaiah 18:2. This highlights how natural elements can be portrayed as instruments acting upon a nation within a prophetic narrative.
- Condition before Restoration: Despite the land being spoiled, the prophecy culminates with this same nation bringing "a present unto the LORD of hosts" to "mount Zion" Isaiah 18:7. This suggests that the condition of being spoiled is a precursor to an eventual act of reverence toward God.
In summary, H958 provides a specific and vivid depiction of spoiling. Though its usage is rare, it is integral to the description of the nation in Isaiah 18. The word signifies the physical devastation of a land by rivers, which serves as a powerful metaphor for the downtrodden yet formidable character of its people. Its context shows that even a people from a spoiled land are part of God's ultimate prophetic purpose.
TRV