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H5756 · Hebrew · Old Testament
עוּז
uz
Verb
flee to safety, seek refuge, take refuge

Definition

Uz is a verb meaning to flee quickly to a place of safety, to seek refuge, to take shelter. It describes the action of running from danger toward a secure place. Related to oz (strength), the word implies that the place of refuge provides strength to the one who takes shelter there.

Usage & Theological Significance

While uz appears rarely, its theology is enormous. Isaiah 10:31 uses it for flight from enemy attack; Jeremiah 4:6 for fleeing before catastrophe. But the spiritual dimension is primary: to flee to God is the highest act of faith. Proverbs 18:10 — 'The name of the LORD is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.' The verb captures the urgency and intentionality of faith: running to God is not passive but active, not slow but urgent. The NT equivalent is 'fleeing to Christ' from the wrath to come.

Key Bible Verses

Isaiah 10:31 Madmenah is in flight; the people of Gebim take cover [uz].
Jeremiah 4:6 Raise the signal toward Zion! Flee [uz] for safety without delay!
Proverbs 18:10 The name of the LORD is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it [uz] and are safe.
Isaiah 20:6 How then can we escape? Where can we flee for help?
Nahum 3:11 You too will become drunk; you will go into hiding and seek refuge from the enemy.

Related Words

External Resources

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