תָּאַב
to desire
Definition
The Hebrew verb תָּאַב (tâʼab) means to desire, long for, or yearn deeply. It conveys an intense, often emotional craving or longing, not merely a casual wish. In its two biblical occurrences, it specifically describes a soul's deep longing for God's precepts and salvation. In Psalm 119:40, the psalmist longs for God's commandments, and in Psalm 119:174, he longs for God's salvation, showing the word's use for spiritual and moral yearning.
Biblical Usage
This verb is used only twice in the Old Testament, both in Psalm 119. It appears in contexts of personal piety, expressing the psalmist's intense desire for God's instruction and deliverance. The pattern shows it is a poetic word for deep, spiritual longing within the wisdom tradition, as seen in Psalm 119:40 ('Behold, I long for your precepts') and Psalm 119:174 ('I long for your salvation, O LORD').
Etymology
תָּאַב is a primitive root. Its exact derivation is uncertain, but it is related to a root meaning 'to desire' or 'to long for.' Cognates may exist in other Semitic languages with similar meanings of craving or yearning. The word's usage suggests a development toward expressing deep, soul-level desire.
Semantic Range
This word is theologically significant as it captures the posture of a devout heart toward God's word and salvation. It enriches the understanding of piety in the Psalms, showing that true devotion involves deep, emotional longing for God's commands and deliverance, not just outward compliance. It connects to doctrines of sanctification and hope, illustrating the believer's earnest desire for God's promises.
In ancient Israelite culture, longing for God's law was central to covenantal faithfulness. This deep desire reflected a heart aligned with God's will, differing from modern casual wishes by its intensity and spiritual focus. It was understood as a mark of genuine wisdom and devotion.
חפץ (châphêts, H2654) — to delight in, take pleasure in; more about favor or choice. אוה (ʼâvâh, H183) — to wish, desire, or crave; can imply coveting. אהב (ʼâhab, H157) — to love; broader emotional attachment.
Word Details
How this works
Hebrew definitions are from Brown-Driver-Briggs (1906) and Strong's Exhaustive Concordance (1890), both public domain. BDB was groundbreaking for its era but reflects 19th-century assumptions about Semitic etymology. Modern scholarship (HALOT, DCH) has revised many entries. Use these definitions as a starting point for exploration, not as the final word on a term's meaning in context.
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