עָמַק

עָמַק

to be (causatively, make) deep (literally or figuratively)

Definition

The Hebrew verb עָמַק (ʻâmaq) fundamentally means 'to be deep' or 'to make deep,' encompassing both literal and figurative senses. Literally, it describes physical depth, such as the deep digging of a pit (Isaiah 30:33) or the profound depths of God's thoughts (Psalm 92:5). Figuratively, it often conveys hiddenness, secrecy, or inscrutability, as when people try to hide their plans 'deep' from the Lord (Isaiah 29:15) or when their sin is 'deep' (Hosea 5:2). In a causative sense, it can mean to make something deep or to dig deeply.

Biblical Usage

עָמַק is used nine times in the Old Testament, primarily in the prophetic books of Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Hosea. Its usage patterns show a strong connection to themes of judgment and divine insight. It describes both the hidden, rebellious intentions of humans (Isaiah 29:15, Jeremiah 49:8, 49:30) and the profound, unsearchable nature of God's wisdom and judgment (Psalm 92:5, Isaiah 31:6). In Isaiah 7:11, it is used in Ahaz's refusal to ask for a sign 'deep as Sheol,' linking depth to the realm of the dead.

Etymology

A primitive root, עָמַק is the verbal root from which the common noun עֹמֶק (ʻomeq, H6013), meaning 'depth' or 'deep place,' is derived. It is related to other Semitic words for depth and the sea. The core concept is of profound vertical extension, whether physical, intellectual, or spiritual.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it highlights a key contrast in Scripture: the futile attempt of humans to hide their sin and plans from an all-knowing God (Isaiah 29:15) versus the profound, wonderful depth of God's own thoughts and judgments (Psalm 92:5). It underscores God's omniscience and the futility of human secrecy, while also pointing to the mystery and richness of His wisdom, which is deep yet calls for exploration. In an ancient Near Eastern context, 'depth' was often associated with mystery, danger, and the unknown, such as deep waters, deep pits, or the deep underworld (Sheol). Hiding something 'deep' implied a serious attempt at concealment, making the biblical use a powerful metaphor for the impossibility of hiding from a transcendent God. שָׁקַע (shāqaʻ, H8257) — to sink or settle down, more about submersion than inherent depth. עָצַם (ʻātsam, H6105) — to be vast or mighty, can imply great extent but not specifically depth. תְּהוֹם (tehôm, H8415) — the deep, abyss, or chaotic deep (a noun for the place itself).

Word Details