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H987 · Hebrew · Old Testament
בַּטֻּחוֹת
battuchoth
Noun, feminine plural
security, confidences

Definition

Battuchoth (בַּטֻּחוֹת) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible (Job 12:5), describing a state of ease, comfort, or false security. The plural form emphasizes multiple dimensions of settled confidence. In its sole context it describes the contempt the prosperous feel toward the afflicted — a security rooted in comfortable circumstances rather than genuine trust in God.

Usage & Theological Significance

This hapax legomenon (appearing once only) challenges readers to examine the source of their confidence. Job's comforters had battuchoth — comfortable, untested ease — and from that security they misread Job's suffering as evidence of sin. The word warns that earthly security can blind us to the realities of suffering and divine sovereignty. True security (batach) is tested and refined; false security is shattered when circumstances change.

Key Bible Verses

Job 12:5 Those who are at ease have contempt for misfortune as the fate of those whose feet are slipping.
Psalm 30:6 When I felt secure, I said, 'I will never be shaken.'
Luke 12:19 'I'll say to myself, You have plenty of grain laid up for many years. Take life easy.'
Proverbs 1:32 The complacency of fools will destroy them.
Amos 6:1 Woe to you who are complacent in Zion, and to you who feel secure on Mount Samaria.

Related Words

External Resources

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