### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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