### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **biṭchâh**, represented by `{{H985}}`, is the feminine form for **trust** or **confidence**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in scripture. Its singular usage highlights a profound spiritual state: an inner trust that serves as the foundation for divine strength.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H985}}` is in a divine declaration from the Lord `{{H136}}` GOD `{{H3069}}` to Israel `{{H3478}}`. In [[Isaiah 30:15]], God outlines the path to salvation and strength, stating, "in quietness `{{H8252}}` and in **confidence** `{{H985}}` shall be your strength `{{H1369}}`." This confidence is presented as a crucial component of a broader posture of repentance and rest, which the people of Israel rejected.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context illuminate the meaning of **biṭchâh**:
* `{{H1369}}` **gᵉbûwrâh** (force, mastery, might, power, strength): This is the direct result promised to those who possess quiet confidence. The strength offered by God is contingent on this state of trust [[Isaiah 30:15]]. This word is often used to describe God's own power and might [[1 Chronicles 29:11]].
* `{{H8252}}` **shâqaṭ** (to repose; quietness, rest, be still): This word is paired directly with **confidence** in [[Isaiah 30:15]], indicating that true trust is characterized by a peaceful and still spirit, free from frantic human effort.
* `{{H7729}}` **shûwbâh** (a return; returning): This is the first step in God's instruction for salvation. The ability to find rest, quietness, and **confidence** is predicated on first "returning" to God [[Isaiah 30:15]].
* `{{H5183}}` **Nachath** (restfulness; quietness, to rest): Paired with "returning," this word establishes that salvation `{{H3467}}` is found not in action but in a state of restfulness granted by God [[Isaiah 30:15]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H985}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful context:
* **The Source of True Strength:** The verse explicitly defines the source of strength `{{H1369}}` as being rooted in **confidence** and quietness, a divine principle that stands in contrast to human striving.
* **A Condition for Salvation:** The path to being saved `{{H3467}}` is presented as a sequence of internal postures: returning, rest, quietness, and ultimately, **confidence**.
* **A Divine Declaration:** The instruction comes directly from "the Lord GOD, the Holy One `{{H6918}}` of Israel," underscoring that this principle is not a human philosophy but a divine command and promise [[Isaiah 30:15]].
### Summary
In summary, though **biṭchâh** is one of the rarest words in the biblical lexicon, its meaning is critically important. It represents a specific kind of confidence—one that is born from returning to God and resting in Him. In its sole appearance, it serves as a powerful reminder that spiritual strength and salvation are found not in frantic activity but in quiet, settled trust in God's provision.
TRV