The Hebrew word châzêq, represented by H2390, means powerful or, idiomatically, to wax louder or stronger. It appears 3 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible, describing a process of increasing power or intensity. This term is used to illustrate a progression, whether in the context of political dominion or the awesome sound of a divine encounter.
In its biblical applications, H2390 marks significant moments of transition. It is used twice in a single verse to describe the political ascendancy of David's kingdom, stating that "David waxed stronger and stronger, and the house of Saul waxed weaker and weaker" 2 Samuel 3:1. This repetition emphasizes the steady and undeniable shift in power and favor. In a very different context, the word describes the sound of the trumpet at Sinai, which "waxed louder and louder" just before Moses spake and God answered him Exodus 19:19. Here, it conveys an escalating intensity that precedes direct divine communication.
Several related words help frame the meaning of H2390 in its scriptural context:
- H1732 Dâvid (David): The central figure whose house is described as growing stronger, representing the rise of his divinely appointed dynasty 2 Samuel 3:1.
- H1800 dal (weaker): Used in direct contrast to H2390, this word describes the decline of the house of Saul, highlighting the theme of shifting power and fortunes 2 Samuel 3:1.
- H7782 shôwphâr (trumpet): The instrument whose sound is described as growing louder H2390, serving as a herald for God's presence at Mount Sinai Exodus 19:19.
- H1980 hâlak (to walk, wax): This verb is paired with H2390 to create the phrase "waxed stronger," indicating a continuous and progressive movement toward a state of greater power 2 Samuel 3:1.
The theological significance of H2390 is tied to its depiction of progressive power as a marker of divine activity.
- The Establishment of a Kingdom: The use of H2390 to describe the strengthening of David's house H1004 while Saul's H7586 weakened illustrates the tangible outcome of God's favor. It portrays the rise of David not as a sudden event, but as a steady process of increasing strength during a long war H4421 2 Samuel 3:1.
- The Herald of Divine Communication: The term's use to describe the sound H6963 of the trumpet H7782 growing louder signifies the building anticipation and awesome power of God's H430 presence. This intensifying sound precedes a direct encounter where Moses H4872 speaks and God H430 answers H6030, marking the sacredness of the moment Exodus 19:19.
In summary, H2390 is a focused term that conveys the concept of increasing force and intensity. Though rare, its uses are pivotal, marking both the consolidation of David's kingdom on earth and the magnificent sound heralding God's voice from heaven. It demonstrates how the Bible uses the idea of growing strength—whether political or auditory—to signify moments of profound divine purpose and revelation.
TRV