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H5486 · Hebrew · Old Testament
סוּף
Suph
Verb
To Come to an End / To Cease

Definition

The Hebrew verb suph means to come to an end, to cease, or to be consumed. It conveys final termination — the complete ending of something. The word appears rarely but in significant contexts of finality. Note: the noun suph (reeds/rushes) is a different word, though Yam Suph (Sea of Reeds) resonates with an ending place.

Usage & Theological Significance

Esther 9:28 uses suph powerfully: Purim 'will never cease from their descendants.' Zephaniah 1:18 warns God 'will make a sudden end (suph) of all who live in the earth.' Theologically, suph reminds us all earthly things end — kingdoms, generations, human plans. Only God's word endures without suph (Isaiah 40:8).

Key Bible Verses

Esther 9:28 these days of Purim should never cease to be celebrated by the Jewish people.
Zephaniah 1:18 he will make a sudden end of all who live in the earth.
2 Chronicles 12:12 Because Rehoboam humbled himself, the LORD's anger turned and he was not totally destroyed.
Amos 3:15 the houses adorned with ivory will be destroyed and the mansions will be demolished.
Isaiah 40:8 The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God endures forever.

Related Words

External Resources

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