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מוּד (mud)

mud

to shake

H4128 · Hebrew · Old Testament · 1 verses

H:V

Quick Reference

Language
Biblical Hebrew
Testament
Old Testament
Occurrences
1 verses
Root
—
Part of speech
H:V

Word Overview

The Hebrew word mud appears only once in the Old Testament, in Habakkuk 2:3. It is a rare verb that literally means "to shake." In this specific context, it describes the vision as something that will not tremble or falter. The text assures the prophet that while the revelation may seem distant or unstable to human perception, it remains firm and secure in its fulfillment.

Lexical sources note that mud is likely a variant form of mot, which means to totter or slide. By using this specific root, Habakkuk emphasizes stability against instability. The vision will not shake under pressure or time. This single usage highlights the contrast between human uncertainty and divine reliability, anchoring the prophecy in unshakable truth.

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

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The Hebrew word mud appears only once in Scripture, found within the prophetic book of Habakkuk. It literally means to shake or totter. In this rare instance, the text uses a negative construction to assure the prophet that the divine vision will not shake. This offers a profound anchor for our faith when circumstances feel unstable around us.

While human perception often senses distance or uncertainty in God's promises, His word remains firm and secure. The contrast between our trembling feelings and His unshakable truth provides deep comfort. We can trust that what He has spoken stands fast, regardless of how the world may tremble.

How it's translated

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

  • and/ he shook1×

Forms in the text

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

  • וַ/יְמֹ֣דֶד1×

Key Verses

  • Habakkuk 3:6
    He stood, and shook the earth. He looked, and made the nations tremble. The ancient mountains were crumbled. The age-old hills collapsed. His ways are eternal.

    This verse illustrates the power of the divine presence to shake the earth, providing a stark contrast to the unshakeable nature of the vision described in Habakkuk 2:3 where mud is used.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Hebrew word mud mean?

Mud is a rare Hebrew verb that literally means to shake or totter. It appears only once in the Old Testament, in Habakkuk 2:3, where it describes the stability of a divine vision.

Why is this word significant in Habakkuk?

Its significance lies in its rarity and context. By stating the vision will not mud (shake), Habakkuk emphasizes that God's promises are secure and firm, even when they seem distant or unclear to human eyes.

How is mud different from other words for shaking?

While other words might describe general trembling or fear, mud specifically conveys a sense of tottering or sliding instability. In Habakkuk, it is used negatively to highlight the absolute steadiness of God's word against such instability.

Every Occurrence (1 verses across 1 books)