### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **bizzâh**, represented by `{{H961}}`, is a noun meaning **booty; prey, spoil**. As the feminine form of a related term, it appears **10 times** across **10 unique verses** in the Bible. It specifically refers to the plunder, goods, or valuables taken in the aftermath of a conflict or judgment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical accounts, `{{H961}}` is used to describe the tangible consequences of both divine judgment and military victory. It is listed alongside captivity `{{H7628}}` and confusion `{{H1322}}` as a punishment for Israel's iniquities [[Ezra 9:7]]. Similarly, Daniel foretells a time when the people will fall by sword, flame, captivity, and **spoil** [[Daniel 11:33]]. Conversely, it can represent the fruits of a righteous victory, as when the fear of the Lord enabled the armies of Judah to gather "exceeding much **spoil**" [[2 Chronicles 14:14]]. A notable usage appears in the book of Esther, where the Jews, after defending themselves, repeatedly and deliberately refused to lay their hands on the **prey** ([[Esther 9:10]], 9:15, 9:16), indicating their motive was not material gain.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context of plunder and its acquisition:
* `{{H962}}` **bâzaz**: This is the primitive root verb meaning **to plunder**. It describes the very act of taking the `{{H961}}` spoil, as seen when armies "spoiled" cities and took much booty ([[2 Chronicles 14:14]], [[2 Chronicles 25:13]]).
* `{{H7998}}` **shâlâl**: Another word for **booty; prey, spoil**, this term is used interchangeably with `{{H961}}`. It appears alongside it in a prophecy where a king will scatter prey, **spoil**, and riches to secure his power [[Daniel 11:24]].
* `{{H7628}}` **shᵉbîy**: Meaning **exile** or **booty**, this word often appears with `{{H961}}` to link the taking of goods with the taking of people. Being delivered to **spoil** was often part of being delivered to **captivity** ([[Ezra 9:7]], [[Daniel 11:33]]).
* `{{H7633}}` **shibyâh**: The feminine form for **exile** or **captives**, this term is also closely associated with `{{H961}}`. In Nehemiah's prayer, he asks God to give his enemies as a **prey** in the land of **captivity** [[Nehemiah 4:4]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{H961}}` carries significant thematic weight in scripture, often illustrating moral and spiritual principles.
* **A Sign of Judgment:** The loss of possessions to an enemy as **spoil** is frequently portrayed as a direct consequence of disobedience and a tangible form of divine punishment [[Ezra 9:7]].
* **The Spoils of Victory:** When acquired after a battle ordained or blessed by God, the **spoil** serves as evidence of His power and favor on behalf of His people [[2 Chronicles 14:14]].
* **A Test of Character:** The refusal to take **prey** demonstrates a purity of motive. The Jews' restraint in the book of Esther shows that their goal was self-defense and justice, not enrichment through plunder [[Esther 9:16]].
* **A Symbol of Worldly Power:** In prophetic texts, the distribution of **prey** and spoil can be a strategy used by earthly rulers to manipulate and control others, contrasting with God's economy [[Daniel 11:24]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H961}}` **bizzâh** is a focused term that signifies more than just the spoils of war. It serves as a narrative device to illustrate the consequences of sin, the rewards of faithfulness, the purity of righteous motives, and the nature of human power. Whether it is being taken as a sign of victory, left behind as an act of principle, or given over as a mark of judgment, this word powerfully captures the material and moral aftermath of conflict.
TRV