### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼâgêm**, represented by `{{H99}}`, refers to a **pond**. Its base definition suggests a connection to stagnant water and carries a figurative sense of being sad. This term appears only **1 time** in the entire Bible, highlighting a very specific and focused meaning within its single context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H99}}` is found in [[Isaiah 19:10]], a prophecy of judgment against Egypt. The verse states, "And they shall be broken in the purposes thereof, all that make sluices and **ponds** for fish." In this context, the **ponds** represent a man-made source of economic stability and industry. Their destruction is part of a larger divine action to break the foundations and purposes of the nation, targeting its sources of wealth and sustenance.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several words in its only context illuminate the meaning of `{{H99}}`:
* `{{H1792}}` **dâkâʼ** (broken): This word, defined as to "crush, destroy, humble, oppress, smite," describes the fate of Egypt's infrastructure. It is the same word used to describe being "bruised" for iniquities [[Isaiah 53:5]] or having a "contrite" spirit [[Isaiah 57:15]], linking physical destruction to a state of spiritual humbling.
* `{{H8356}}` **shâthâh** (purposes): Meaning "a basis... political or moral support; foundation, purpose," this word shows that the attack is not just on infrastructure but on the very foundations of the society [[Psalms 11:3]].
* `{{H7938}}` **seker** (sluices): Translated as "wages; reward, sluices," this term is paired directly with **ponds** and points to the systems of labor and reward that will be dismantled [[Isaiah 19:10]].
* `{{H5315}}` **nephesh** (fish): Defined broadly as a "breathing creature," in this verse it refers to the fish for which the **ponds** were made, signifying the living resource at the heart of this broken industry.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H99}}` is derived from its unique context of judgment.
* **Dismantling of Human Enterprise:** The **pond** symbolizes human-made systems of security and prosperity. Its destruction demonstrates that earthly foundations built apart from God are fragile and subject to being "broken" `{{H1792}}`.
* **Source of Sadness:** The word's figurative link to sadness aligns perfectly with the verse's outcome. The breaking of the **ponds** and the purposes of those who built them results in despair and ruin for the workers.
* **Judgment on Foundations:** The verse connects the physical **ponds** to the "purposes" or "foundations" `{{H8356}}` of the people. This illustrates a divine judgment that goes beyond the surface to dismantle the core supports of a proud nation.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H99}}` **ʼâgêm** is a highly specific term for a **pond** that carries significant figurative weight in its single biblical appearance. Used in [[Isaiah 19:10]], it represents a point of economic dependency that becomes a target of divine judgment. The word serves as a powerful illustration of how God can break the man-made foundations of a society, leading to the very sadness its definition implies.
TRV