טָרַד

טָרַד

to drive on; figuratively, to follow close

Definition

The Hebrew verb טָרַד (ṭârad) means to drive on, chase, or pursue persistently. In its two biblical occurrences, it carries a figurative sense of something that follows closely or is continual. In Proverbs 19:13, it describes the 'continual dripping' of a contentious wife, a nagging annoyance that relentlessly wears on a household. In Proverbs 27:15, the same imagery is used for a quarrelsome wife, likened to a 'continual dropping' on a rainy day—an inescapable, irritating presence. The core idea is of a driven, unrelenting action, whether physical pursuit or metaphorical harassment.

Biblical Usage

This verb is used only twice in the Old Testament, both times in the book of Proverbs (19:13 and 27:15). In both instances, it appears in the participle form, describing a state of continual action. The context is domestic wisdom literature, specifically warning about the corrosive effect of a contentious spouse. The usage pattern is highly specific, employing vivid imagery of relentless dripping water to metaphorically portray persistent strife.

Etymology

טָרַד is a primitive root. Its core meaning relates to driving, chasing, or thrusting out. Cognates in other Semitic languages, like Arabic and Aramaic, support meanings of expulsion or persecution. In biblical Hebrew, its semantic range narrowed to emphasize persistent, nagging action rather than a single act of driving away.

Semantic Range

While not a central theological term, טָרַד contributes to the biblical wisdom literature's practical theology of relationships and peace. It underscores how persistent sinful behavior, like contentiousness, is not a minor irritation but a destructive force that erodes domestic shalom (peace and wholeness). Understanding this Hebrew term enriches the reading of Proverbs by highlighting the active, aggressive, and wearisome nature of strife, which God's wisdom seeks to avert. The metaphor of a 'continual dripping' would resonate powerfully in an ancient Near Eastern context where homes often had flat roofs vulnerable to leaks during the rainy season. A small, persistent leak was notoriously difficult to locate and stop, causing gradual but significant damage to the home's structure and making daily life miserable. This cultural image perfectly captures the invasive, damaging, and hard-to-stop nature of relentless nagging or conflict. רָדַף (rādaph, H7291) — to pursue or chase, often physically or in battle, whereas טָרַד implies a nagging, persistent harassment. נָגַשׂ (nāgaś, H5065) — to drive, oppress, or exact payment, with a stronger sense of forced labor or tyranny.

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