The Hebrew word baṭṭuchôwth, represented by H987, means security or secure. It is a feminine plural term derived from the root for trust. This word is exceptionally rare, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible, making its specific context crucial to its meaning.
The single use of H987 is found in the book of Job, where it describes a perplexing observation about the state of the world. In this context, it is not the righteous who are secure, but rather the wicked. The verse states that "the tabernacles of robbers prosper, and they that provoke God are secure" Job 12:6. This usage frames security not as a divine blessing for the faithful, but as a condition seemingly enjoyed by those who actively oppose God.
Several related words from its only context in Job 12:6 illuminate the challenging nature of this security:
- H7703 shâdad (robber, spoil(-er)): This word identifies who experiences the security mentioned. The term is associated with destruction and ravaging, as seen when the "spoiler spoileth" Isaiah 21:2 or when the whole land is "spoiled" Jeremiah 4:20.
- H7951 shâlâh (prosper, be in safety): This word is used in parallel with H987 in Job 12:6 to describe the state of the wicked. It means to be tranquil or successful, highlighting that those who deal treacherously can appear "happy" Jeremiah 12:1.
- H7264 râgaz (provoke, tremble): This term describes the actions of those who are secure. It is ironic, as the same word is used for the proper response to God's power, urging people to "tremble" Psalms 99:1 or to "stand in awe" Psalms 4:4.
The theological weight of H987 is derived entirely from its singular, challenging appearance.
- The Paradox of Wicked Prosperity: The primary point is the baffling observation that those who are "robbers" H7703 and who "provoke" H7264 God can be secure. This directly confronts the idea that only the righteous experience stability and peace Job 12:6.
- Worldly vs. Divine Security: This security is located in the "tabernacles of robbers" Job 12:6, contrasting sharply with the safety sought in God's tabernacle H168, where one can abide with the Lord Psalms 15:1. This implies that baṭṭuchôwth here refers to a false, material, or temporary security.
- A Test of Faith: The verse presents a reality that tests faith. It acknowledges that from a human perspective, life can appear unjust, with those who should "tremble" H7264 before God instead living in a state of being secure, a situation that God himself appears to bring about Job 12:6.
In summary, H987 baṭṭuchôwth is a highly specific term whose meaning is inseparable from its context in Job 12:6. Rather than representing the peace that comes from God, it captures the perplexing and worldly security that the wicked sometimes possess. Its singular use serves as a powerful expression of the apparent injustices that can challenge a person's understanding of divine order.
TRV