מוֹתָר (mo.tar)
mo.tar
advantage
H:N-MQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-M
Word Overview
The Hebrew noun moṯār refers to an advantage, surplus, or pre-eminence that remains after other things are accounted for. It describes a state of abundance or superiority, often implying something left over that holds value. In the wisdom literature of Proverbs and Ecclesiastes, this word highlights the tangible benefits or excesses that distinguish one situation from another.
Its usage frequently centers on material gain or social standing where one party possesses more than another. For instance, in Ecclesiastes 7:12, wisdom is compared to money because its protection provides a distinct advantage, suggesting that moṯār represents the protective surplus or superior position gained through insight. The term captures not just having something, but having an excess that confers a clear edge.
Translators often render moṯār as "advantage," "profit," or "superiority" depending on the context. The word underscores the practical reality that wisdom and righteousness can yield a tangible surplus in life, offering a form of security or standing that mere wealth might lack. It points to the enduring value found in what remains when superficial gains are stripped away.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Hebrew word moṯār points to a surplus or edge that remains after the basics are covered. It suggests more than just getting by; it implies a tangible benefit that sets one situation apart from another. In the wisdom of Proverbs and Ecclesiastes, this term helps us see that diligence and insight often yield a lasting advantage over mere haste or empty talk.
When we consider Ecclesiastes 3:19, the text reminds us that humans do not possess an inherent superiority over animals in the physical sense. Both share the same fate and breath, highlighting that worldly status offers no permanent protection against mortality. This perspective invites us to look beyond superficial gains and seek a deeper security.
True advantage is found in wisdom and righteous living. These qualities provide a protective surplus that wealth alone cannot buy. By focusing on what endures rather than what fades, we can find peace in knowing that our efforts are grounded in something far more valuable than temporary success.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- to/ advantage1×
- profit1×
- and/ [the] advantage of1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- מוֹתָ֑ר1×
- לְ/מוֹתָ֑ר1×
- וּ/מוֹתַ֨ר1×
Key Verses
-
Ecclesiastes 3:19
For that which happens to the sons of men happens to animals. Even one thing happens to them. As the one dies, so the other dies. Yes, they have all one breath; and man has no advantage over the animals, for all is vanity.
This verse uses the word to deny any inherent superiority humans have over animals, emphasizing that physical life ends for both in the same way.
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Proverbs 14:23
In all hard work there is profit, but the talk of the lips leads only to poverty.
Here the term is linked to hard work, showing that genuine effort produces a tangible surplus while idle talk leads only to lack.
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Proverbs 21:5
The plans of the diligent surely lead to profit; and everyone who is hasty surely rushes to poverty.
The word appears in contrast to hasty planning, illustrating that careful diligence results in a clear and lasting benefit.