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מַאֲמָץ (ma.a.mats)

ma.a.mats

power

H3981 · Hebrew · Old Testament · 1 verses

H:N-M

Quick Reference

Language
Biblical Hebrew
Testament
Old Testament
Occurrences
1 verses
Root
—
Part of speech
H:N-M

Word Overview

The Hebrew noun ma’amats denotes raw physical strength or force. It appears only once in the Old Testament, found in Job 36:19. In this context, Elihu uses the word to describe the power that might prevent someone from enduring affliction.

This term emphasizes tangible capability rather than abstract authority. It refers to the muscular or energetic capacity to act or resist pressure. The singular occurrence highlights how specific vocabulary can capture a precise nuance of human limitation within divine sovereignty.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

When life feels overwhelming, it is natural to look for sources of stability that seem unshakeable. The word ma'amats describes raw physical strength, the kind of muscular power we rely on when carrying heavy loads or resisting pressure. In Job 36:19, this concept is presented not as a guarantee of safety, but as a question about whether our own might can truly sustain us through deep distress.

Recognizing the limits of our personal power can be a quiet relief rather than a defeat. It reminds us that human capability, while valuable, has boundaries when facing the heaviest burdens of existence. This understanding invites us to place our trust in something greater than our own endurance, finding peace in the knowledge that we do not have to carry everything alone.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • [the] efforts of1×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

  • מַאֲמַצֵּי\־1×

Key Verses

  • Job 36:19
    Would your wealth sustain you in distress, or all the might of your strength?

    This verse uses the term to question whether personal might can ultimately sustain a person during times of severe distress.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Hebrew word ma'amats mean?

Ma'amats refers to raw physical strength or force, specifically the muscular capacity to act or resist pressure. It emphasizes tangible capability rather than abstract authority or political power.

Where does this word appear in the Bible?

It appears only once in the Old Testament, found in Job 36:19 within Elihu's speech to Job about divine justice and human limitation.

How is ma'amats different from other words for strength?

While other Hebrew terms might denote authority or general power, ma'amats specifically highlights physical force and the ability to withstand pressure. It points to bodily capability rather than institutional or spiritual dominance.

Every Occurrence (1 verses across 1 books)