### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼâdar**, represented by `{{H142}}`, is a primitive root used to describe what is **glorious** or **honourable**. It appears 3 times across 3 unique verses in the Bible. The core meaning is to expand, conveying a sense of being great or magnificent.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H142}}` is used exclusively to describe the magnificence of God and his works. Following the parting of the Red Sea, the song of Moses declares that the right hand of the LORD `{{H3068}}` has become **glorious** in power [[Exodus 15:6]]. The same passage describes God as **glorious** in holiness [[Exodus 15:11]]. In Isaiah, the word is used to express how the LORD `{{H3068}}` will make his law **honourable** [[Isaiah 42:21]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the scope of what is considered magnificent or glorious:
* `{{H1431}}` **gâdal** (to be... large... great... magnify): This word often appears with `{{H142}}`, as in Isaiah's prophecy that the LORD will **magnify** the law and make it honourable [[Isaiah 42:21]]. It is also used in calls to worship, such as the exhortation to **magnify** the LORD [[Psalms 34:3]].
* `{{H3581}}` **kôach** (vigor... power... strength): This term defines the might that is described as glorious. God's right hand is not just glorious in the abstract, but specifically **glorious** in **power** [[Exodus 15:6]].
* `{{H6944}}` **qôdesh** (a sacred place or thing... holiness): This word connects glory to divine purity and separateness. God is described as **glorious** in **holiness**, setting him apart from all others [[Exodus 15:11]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H142}}` is focused on defining the nature of God's majesty.
* **Divine Power and Victory:** The term is used to declare that God's right hand has become **glorious** in **power** `{{H3581}}`, specifically in the context of defeating His enemies. This establishes His might as a core attribute of his magnificence [[Exodus 15:6]].
* **Incomparable Holiness:** `{{H142}}` is used to answer the rhetorical question, "Who is like unto thee, O LORD?" by describing God as **glorious** in **holiness** `{{H6944}}`. This highlights that His majesty is rooted in His perfect and unique moral nature [[Exodus 15:11]].
* **The Majesty of the Law:** The concept of what is **honourable** is extended from God's person to His divine law. In Isaiah, it is foretold that the LORD `{{H3068}}` will magnify His law and make it **honourable**, showing that His commandments share in His glory [[Isaiah 42:21]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H142}}` is a specific and powerful term reserved for expressing the supreme majesty of God. Though it appears only three times, it effectively communicates that God's glory is demonstrated through His immense power, His unparalleled holiness, and the divine honor inherent in His law. The word encapsulates the magnificence that sets the LORD apart from all others.
TRV