אשׁשׁ (ish)
ish
be manly
H:VQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:V
Word Overview
The Hebrew verb ishshash appears only once in the Old Testament, found in Isaiah 46:8. In this specific instance, it is used in the Hithpael stem, which typically indicates a reflexive or reciprocal action. The lexicon data suggests the meaning centers on "being manly," showing masculinity, or acting as a champion or great man.
This rare usage serves as a rhetorical challenge to the people of Israel. God asks them to remember their past and consider their current state, urging them to "remember this" and "show yourselves as men." The call is not merely about physical strength but about spiritual courage and fidelity. It contrasts the impotence of idols with the enduring power of Yahweh, inviting His people to stand firm in their identity as His chosen.
The word’s singular occurrence highlights its intensity. By using a term associated with manliness and greatness, Isaiah emphasizes the seriousness of the covenant relationship. The people are called to embody the strength and reliability that God Himself demonstrates, rather than relying on powerless wooden images. This single verse captures a moment where divine authority meets human responsibility.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word ishshash, meaning 'to be manly' or 'show courage,' appears only once in Scripture within Isaiah 46:8. God uses this rare verb to challenge His people to remember their history and stand firm in their identity as His chosen ones. It is not a call to physical dominance but to spiritual resilience and fidelity.
When you face moments of doubt or confusion, this verse invites you to recall God’s past faithfulness. True strength lies in trusting the Creator rather than relying on powerless alternatives. This reminder encourages steady hearts, grounded in the reality that God remains sovereign and present.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- and/ pluck up courage1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- וְ/הִתְאֹשָׁ֑שׁוּ1×
Key Verses
-
Isaiah 46:8
“Remember this, and show yourselves men. Bring it to mind again, you transgressors.
This verse uniquely uses the Hithpael stem of ishshash to command Israel to remember God's deeds and demonstrate spiritual courage against idolatry.