יֶ֫שַׁח (ye.shach)
ye.shach
emptiness
H:N-MQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-M
Word Overview
The Hebrew noun ye.shach appears only once in the Old Testament, in Micah 6:14. The sources describe its meaning as a "sinking feeling" or emptiness, likely referring to the hollow sensation of hunger. Because it is so rare, scholars have had to infer this definition from the context rather than comparing it to other known usages.
In its single occurrence, the word describes the physical and spiritual deprivation that comes from divine judgment. The prophet uses it to illustrate how a person can be left with nothing substantial, emphasizing the severity of turning away from God. This specific instance highlights the tangible consequences of unfaithfulness in Micah’s warning.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word ye.shach describes a hollow emptiness, specifically the sinking feeling of hunger that remains even after eating. In Micah 6:14, it paints a picture of someone who tries to find satisfaction in their own efforts but is left with nothing substantial. This image reminds us that our deepest needs cannot be filled by material gain or self-reliance alone.
When life feels empty or when we strive for security without God, this word speaks to the reality of spiritual deprivation. It invites us to look beyond temporary comforts and seek the true source of sustenance. Trusting in God brings a peace that no amount of storing up can provide.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- and/ emptiness/ your1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- וְ/יֶשְׁחֲ/ךָ֖1×
Key Verses
-
Micah 6:14
You shall eat, but not be satisfied. Your hunger will be within you. You will store up, but not save, and that which you save I will give up to the sword.
This verse uses ye.shach to describe the hollow hunger that persists despite eating, illustrating the futility of relying on self-sufficiency rather than God.