מׇרָּה (mor.rah)

mor.rah

bitterness

H4787 · Hebrew · Old Testament · 1 verses

H:N-F

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

Word Overview

The Hebrew noun marrah signifies a state of bitterness, appearing only once in the Old Testament at Proverbs 14:10. In this specific context, it describes the internal experience of the heart, suggesting that personal sorrow or distress is a private matter known fully only to the individual who endures it.

Its occurrence is limited to this single verse, where it stands in contrast to external joy. The word captures the heavy, inward quality of suffering that cannot be entirely shared or understood by others, highlighting the solitude inherent in deep personal grief within the wisdom literature.

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

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The Hebrew word marrah describes a deep, inward bitterness that resides within the human heart. It is not merely surface-level annoyance but a heavy sorrow or distress that defines a person’s inner life. This term reminds us that some of our pain is profoundly private, known fully only to ourselves.

In Proverbs 14:10, we learn that while others may see our outward joy, they cannot fully grasp the hidden bitterness we carry. This truth can feel isolating, yet it also offers a quiet comfort. You do not need to explain every layer of your suffering to be understood by God.

When you face seasons where words fail or friends cannot reach your depth of feeling, remember that your heart’s reality is seen. There is dignity in acknowledging this private struggle without needing to perform happiness for others.

How it's translated

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

[the] bitterness of1×

Forms in the text

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

מָרַּ֣ת1×

Key Verses

Proverbs 14:10
The heart knows its own bitterness and joy; he will not share these with a stranger.

This verse uniquely uses marrah to highlight the solitary nature of personal sorrow, contrasting it with shared joy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does marrah mean in Proverbs?

Marrah signifies deep internal bitterness or sorrow. In Proverbs 14:10, it describes the private pain that only the individual truly knows, distinguishing inner suffering from outward appearances.

Why is this word significant for understanding grief?

It validates the experience of solitary grief. The word acknowledges that some pain cannot be fully shared or understood by others, offering comfort to those who feel misunderstood in their sorrow.

How is marrah different from general sadness?

While general sadness can be temporary and shared, marrah implies a heavier, more entrenched bitterness that remains hidden within the heart. It suggests a depth of distress that resists easy explanation or relief.

Every Occurrence (1 verses across 1 books)

Proverbs 1 verse

Proverbs 14:10

The heart knows its own bitterness and joy; he will not share these with a stranger.