שֶׁצֶף (she.tseph)
she.tseph
overflowing
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 she.tseph, corresponding to Strong’s H8241, describes a state of overflowing or an overwhelming flood. It appears as a variant spelling of the more common word she.teph (H7858), carrying the same core meaning of a sudden, forceful rush of water that exceeds its boundaries.
This term captures the intensity of nature’s power, evoking images of heavy downpours or rising waters that cannot be contained. In the single verse where it occurs in the Hebrew Bible, Isaiah 28:17, the word is used metaphorically to describe the sweeping judgment of God. The imagery suggests a storm that washes away all resistance, leaving nothing but the sheer force of the deluge.
Translators typically render this word as "flood" or "overflowing," emphasizing the uncontrollable and destructive potential of such natural forces. By using this specific vocabulary, the biblical text highlights the magnitude of divine action, portraying it not as a gentle rain but as an irresistible torrent that reshapes the landscape.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word she.tseph describes an overwhelming flood, a rush of water that cannot be contained. While it often evokes images of destruction, its single occurrence in Isaiah 28:17 is framed by the promise of refuge. God uses this imagery not to terrify, but to show that His justice is as real and powerful as any storm.
For your faith, this means you can trust a God who is both just and merciful. Even when circumstances feel like they are rising beyond your control, His love remains steadfast. You do not need to fear the chaos, because the One who speaks over the waters holds the final word. His kindness endures long after the storm passes.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- in/ a flood of1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- בְּ/שֶׁ֣צֶף1×
Key Verses
-
Isaiah 54:8
In overflowing wrath I hid my face from you for a moment, but with everlasting loving kindness I will have mercy on you,” says Yahweh your Redeemer.
This verse contrasts the fleeting nature of divine wrath with eternal mercy, showing that even overwhelming judgment is temporary compared to God's lasting love.