עָשַׁת (a.shat)
a.shat
to gleam; to think
H:VQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:V
Word Overview
The Hebrew verb `a.shat` carries two distinct meanings depending on its grammatical form. In the simple Qal stem, it describes a physical quality: to be smooth, shiny, or gleaming. This usage evokes the visual texture of polished surfaces or light reflecting off something refined.
In the Hithpael stem, the meaning shifts significantly to mental activity, where it translates as "to think" or "to plan." This cognitive sense aligns with its Aramaic cognate `a.shit`, which also conveys the idea of deliberation. The rarity of this word in Scripture, appearing only twice (as noted in sources like Jonah and Jeremiah), suggests it was not a common term for everyday reflection but perhaps reserved for specific contexts of calculation or observation.
The connection between physical smoothness and mental planning may seem abstract, yet both senses imply a process of refinement or clear assessment. Whether observing the gleam of an object or weighing options in the mind, `a.shat` points to a focused attention on detail and clarity.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word a.shat appears in Scripture with two distinct meanings: to gleam physically or to think mentally. In Jonah 1:6, the shipmaster urges Jonah to call on his God so that perhaps He will notice them. This usage of thinking implies a deliberate mental effort to consider options and seek direction when circumstances are unclear.
Similarly, Jeremiah 5:28 describes wicked men who shine in their deeds. Here, the gleaming quality reflects an outward appearance of success or power, yet it lacks true justice. The contrast between these two uses invites us to examine where our attention lies—whether we are focused on external appearances or on thoughtful, faithful action.
When life feels uncertain, like being caught in a storm at sea, we can look to God for clarity. He invites us to think deeply about His ways and to trust that He sees us. This word reminds us that true strength comes not from shining outwardly but from aligning our minds with divine wisdom.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- they have become smooth1×
- he will give thought1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- עָשְׁת֗וּ1×
- יִתְעַשֵּׁ֧ת1×
Key Verses
-
Jonah 1:6
So the ship master came to him, and said to him, “What do you mean, sleeper? Arise, call on your God! Maybe your God will notice us, so that we won’t perish.”
The shipmaster uses the Hithpael form to urge Jonah to think deliberately about calling on God for rescue.
-
Jeremiah 5:28
They have grown fat. They shine; yes, they excel in deeds of wickedness. They don’t plead the cause, the cause of the fatherless, that they may prosper; and they don’t defend the rights of the needy.
The Qal stem describes wicked men who gleam outwardly in their oppressive deeds, highlighting a contrast between appearance and justice.