### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **chôzeq**, represented by `{{H2392}}`, means **power** or **strength**. Derived from the root for "to be strong," this term appears **5 times** in **5 unique verses**. It is used specifically to describe both the mighty power of God in action and the false or temporary strength of human kingdoms and individuals.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its most prominent use, `{{H2392}}` is central to the narrative of the Exodus. A recurring phrase in Exodus declares that "by **strength** of hand the LORD brought you out from Egypt" ([[Exodus 13:3]], [[Exodus 13:14]], [[Exodus 13:16]]). This repetition establishes that Israel's deliverance was not due to its own might but was a direct result of God's overwhelming power. In contrast, the word is also used to describe the worldly power that God will ultimately judge. The prophet Haggai states God's intent to "destroy the **strength** of the kingdoms of the heathen" [[Haggai 2:22]]. Similarly, Amos rebukes those who boast, "Have we not taken to us horns by our own **strength**?" [[Amos 6:13]], highlighting the folly of trusting in human power.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the application of `{{H2392}}`:
* `{{H3027}}` **yâd**: This word for **a hand (the open one (indicating power, means, direction, etc.),** is directly paired with `{{H2392}}` in the Exodus account to form the phrase "strength of hand," emphasizing God's active, direct intervention [[Exodus 13:3]].
* `{{H3068}}` **Yᵉhôvâh**: As **(the) self-Existent or Eternal; Jehovah, Jewish national name of God**, he is the sole wielder of the divine strength described by `{{H2392}}` in the context of Israel's salvation [[Exodus 13:14]].
* `{{H3318}}` **yâtsâʼ**: Meaning **to go (causatively, bring) out**, this verb describes the action that God accomplishes through His `{{H2392}}`, bringing Israel out of bondage [[Exodus 13:16]].
* `{{H7161}}` **qeren**: A **horn** used figuratively to represent **power**. This is what the people in Amos's time falsely believed they had acquired by their own strength [[Amos 6:13]].
* `{{H8045}}` **shâmad**: Meaning **to desolate; destory(-uction)**, this word is used to describe God's action against the "strength" of the heathen kingdoms, showing his ultimate sovereignty [[Haggai 2:22]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H2392}}` is centered on the contrast between divine and human power.
* **God's Saving Power:** The term is primarily used to memorialize God's strength as the sole agent of Israel's deliverance from Egypt. This foundational event was to be remembered as an act of divine might, not human achievement [[Exodus 13:14]].
* **Sovereignty Over Nations:** The word demonstrates that God's strength is absolute, extending over all earthly kingdoms. His power is capable of destroying the very "strength of the kingdoms" [[Haggai 2:22]].
* **Critique of Human Pride:** `{{H2392}}` is used to condemn the arrogance of those who trust in their own might. Amos's prophecy shows that claiming strength for oneself, apart from God, is a delusion [[Amos 6:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2392}}` is a precise term for **strength** that scripture uses to make a critical distinction. It is overwhelmingly associated with the hand of **Yᵉhôvâh** `{{H3068}}` performing the definitive act of salvation in the Exodus. At the same time, it is used to expose the futility of the strength claimed by proud individuals and powerful nations, which God can easily **destroy** `{{H8045}}`. The word thus serves as a powerful reminder that true, lasting strength originates from God alone.
TRV