מִסְפּוֹא (mis.po)
mis.po
fodder
H:N-MQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 5 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-M
Word Overview
The noun mispo refers to fodder or green feed for livestock. It appears only five times in the Hebrew Bible, primarily in the book of Genesis and Judges. The word describes the vegetation that sustains animals, highlighting the agricultural and pastoral realities of ancient Israel.
In these texts, mispo is often associated with the provision needed for herds and flocks. For instance, it appears in narratives involving the management of livestock, underscoring the importance of adequate grazing land. The term itself points to the practical care required in a society where animals were essential for livelihood.
Its limited usage suggests that while fodder was a common necessity, the specific lexical item was reserved for particular contexts within the biblical narrative. Translators typically render it as "fodder" or "feed," maintaining the concrete sense of plant material used for animal sustenance.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word mispo refers to the fodder or green feed given to livestock. In ancient Israel, caring for animals was a daily responsibility that required planning and provision. This simple noun reminds us of the practical care needed to sustain life in a pastoral society.
For your faith, this word highlights God’s attention to detail. He provides not only for human needs but also for the creatures under our stewardship. When we see characters like Abraham’s servant or the men in Judges ensuring their animals have feed, it reflects a culture of responsibility and trust in daily provision.
Ultimately, mispo points to a God who sustains all life. Whether through abundant pastures or careful preparation, He ensures that needs are met. This invites us to appreciate the ordinary moments of care and provision in our own lives as reflections of His faithful goodness.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 5 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- fodder4×
- and/ fodder1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- מִסְפּ֖וֹא2×
- מִסְפּוֹא֙1×
- מִסְפּ֛וֹא1×
- וּ/מִסְפּוֹא֙1×
Key Verses
-
Genesis 24:25
She said moreover to him, “We have both straw and feed enough, and room to lodge in.”
Rebekah’s immediate offer of straw and feed demonstrates hospitality and preparedness, showing how mispo was essential for welcoming guests with their animals.
-
Genesis 24:32
The man came into the house, and he unloaded the camels. He gave straw and feed for the camels, and water to wash his feet and the feet of the men who were with him.
The servant’s action of providing feed for the camels underscores the practical care required to maintain livestock during long journeys, reflecting diligence and stewardship.
-
Judges 19:19
Yet there is both straw and feed for our donkeys; and there is bread and wine also for me, and for your servant, and for the young man who is with your servants. There is no lack of anything.”
The Levite’s host assures him that there is no lack of feed, highlighting how provision for animals was a standard part of hospitality in ancient times.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Hebrew word mispo mean?
Why is mispo mentioned in these biblical stories?
How does mispo relate to God’s provision?
Every Occurrence (5 verses across 2 books)
Genesis 4 verses
She said moreover to him, “We have both straw and feed enough, and room to lodge in.”
Genesis 24:32The man came into the house, and he unloaded the camels. He gave straw and feed for the camels, and water to wash his…
Genesis 42:27As one of them opened his sack to give his donkey food in the lodging place, he saw his money. Behold, it was in the…
Genesis 43:24The man brought the men into Joseph’s house, and gave them water, and they washed their feet. He gave their donkeys…