תָּקֵף (ta.qaph)
ta.qaph
to prevail
H:VQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:V
Word Overview
The Hebrew verb taqaph conveys the idea of prevailing or overcoming with force. It describes a situation where one party gains the upper hand, overpowering an opponent or circumstance. This word appears in only three verses in the Old Testament, primarily within the poetic and philosophical books of Job and Ecclesiastes.
In these contexts, taqaph highlights the tension between human struggle and divine sovereignty. For instance, in Job 21:30, it is used to describe how the wicked may seem to prevail or escape judgment for a time, only to face eventual consequences. The term captures a sense of decisive victory or dominance, often in the face of resistance.
Its limited usage underscores its specific application in moments of intense conflict or moral ambiguity. Translators typically render it as "prevail" or "overcome," reflecting its core meaning of gaining superiority through strength or persistence. This word invites readers to consider the dynamics of power and justice in a world where outcomes are not always immediately clear.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Hebrew word taqaph speaks of prevailing with force, often in the face of resistance or overwhelming odds. It appears in the Old Testament to describe moments where power shifts, whether through human struggle or divine action. In Job and Ecclesiastes, it highlights the tension between human effort and the realities of life’s challenges.
For those facing difficulties, this word offers a sobering yet hopeful perspective. It reminds us that while circumstances may seem to overpower us, there is a deeper order at work. Even when distress makes fear arise, as in Job 15:24, or when solitude feels vulnerable, as in Ecclesiastes 4:12, the text points to strength found in community and trust.
Ultimately, taqaph invites reflection on where true strength lies. It encourages reliance on something greater than ourselves, acknowledging that while we may strive, ultimate victory belongs to God. This understanding brings peace, knowing that no struggle is beyond His reach.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- you overpower/ him1×
- someone will overpower/ him1×
- it overpowers/ him1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- תִּתְקְפֵ֣/הוּ1×
- תִּ֝תְקְפֵ֗/הוּ1×
- יִתְקְפ/וֹ֙1×
Key Verses
-
Job 14:20
You forever prevail against him, and he departs. You change his face, and send him away.
This verse shows God prevailing against humanity, emphasizing divine sovereignty over human frailty.
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Job 15:24
Distress and anguish make him afraid. They prevail against him, as a king ready to the battle.
Here, distress and anguish prevail like a king in battle, illustrating the overwhelming nature of suffering.
-
Ecclesiastes 4:12
If a man prevails against one who is alone, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken.
The image of two prevailing over one highlights the practical strength found in companionship and unity.