The Hebrew word hămullâh, represented by H1999, denotes a powerful sound, translated as either speech or tumult. Derived from an unused root meaning to rush like a windy rain, it appears just 2 times in 2 unique verses. Its rarity is contrasted by the intensity of the contexts in which it is found, describing overwhelming auditory experiences.
In its biblical appearances, H1999 describes sounds of immense power, both divine and destructive. In Ezekiel's vision, it is the sound of the wings of the living creatures, described as "the voice of speech" and equated with the voice of the Almighty and the noise of a host Ezekiel 1:24. In contrast, Jeremiah uses the word to depict God's judgment against Israel, where a "green olive tree" is destroyed with "the noise of a great tumult" Jeremiah 11:16.
Several related words help clarify the nature of the sound described by hămullâh:
- H6963 qôwl (a voice or sound): This word is used alongside H1999 in both of its occurrences, as "the voice of speech" Ezekiel 1:24 and "the noise of a great tumult" Jeremiah 11:16, setting the general category of the sound.
- H1419 gâdôwl (great): In Jeremiah, this word modifies tumult, emphasizing the sheer scale of the destructive sound as a "great tumult" Jeremiah 11:16.
- H4264 machăneh (host): The sound in Ezekiel's vision is compared to the noise of a host, suggesting the overwhelming sound produced by a vast army or encampment Ezekiel 1:24.
- H7706 Shadday (the Almighty): The sound in Ezekiel is directly compared to the voice of the Almighty, linking the concept of H1999 to a direct expression of divine power Ezekiel 1:24.
The theological significance of H1999 is tied to its depiction of divine power expressed through sound.
- The Voice of Divine Majesty: In Ezekiel, the word contributes to a soundscape that defines the presence of God. It is the "voice of speech" that accompanies the "voice of the Almighty," signifying a powerful, articulate, and awe-inspiring divine presence Ezekiel 1:24.
- The Noise of Divine Judgment: In Jeremiah, the word captures the terrifying sound of covenantal punishment. The "great tumult" is the sound of the LORD enacting judgment, breaking the very branches of the people He had named a "fair... olive tree" Jeremiah 11:16.
In summary, H1999 is a specific and powerful term used to convey overwhelming sound. Though appearing only twice, it uniquely captures the dual nature of divine power. It can be the articulate "speech" associated with the presence of the Almighty or the destructive "tumult" of His judgment, demonstrating how the same divine power can be perceived as either an awesome revelation or a terrifying force.
TRV