ruach is to discuss someone’s character, nature, or condition (Isa. 19:3). Typical examples in the Old Testament are a bitter spirit depicting grief (Gen. 26:35), or anger (Ezek. 3:14), a sinking spirit—depression (1 Kg. 21:5), or a short spirit—discouragement (Exod. 6:9). This way of thinking is characteristic of the older strata of the Old Testament. While apart from the enigmatic Azazel,36 there does not seem to be any firm conception of roving evil spirits that are free-lance as such.37 However
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