### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mâʼôwç**, represented by `{{H3973}}`, means **refuse**. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing just **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its singular appearance, however, occurs in a context of profound lament, giving it significant weight. It describes something that is utterly rejected or considered worthless.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H3973}}` is found in [[Lamentations 3:45]], where the prophet expresses deep national suffering. The verse states, "Thou hast made us as the offscouring and **refuse** in the midst of the people." Here, **mâʼôwç** is paired with "offscouring" `{{H5501}}` to emphasize a state of being cast aside and despised. The text attributes this condition directly to God's action, portraying Israel as having been made worthless among the surrounding nations.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in its only context illuminate the meaning of `{{H3973}}`:
* `{{H5501}}` **çᵉchîy** (offscouring): This word, defined as "refuse (as swept off)," is used in direct parallel with **mâʼôwç** in [[Lamentations 3:45]]. Their combined use creates a powerful image of being treated as worthless garbage that has been swept away.
* `{{H7760}}` **sûwm** (to put): This is the verb used to describe the action in [[Lamentations 3:45]]: "Thou hast **made** us..." It is a primitive root meaning "to put" or "appoint," indicating that this state of being refuse was not accidental but was deliberately appointed or imposed.
* `{{H5971}}` **ʻam** (a people): The verse states that they were made refuse "in the midst of the **people**." This term for a congregated unit or nation provides the social backdrop for the shame, emphasizing that the degradation is public. This is particularly poignant as `{{H5971}}` is often used to describe God's own covenant community [[Jeremiah 31:33]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H3973}}` is concentrated in its single, impactful use:
* **Expression of Ultimate Rejection:** The word captures the depth of despair felt by those who believe they have been utterly cast aside by God. It moves beyond simple hardship to a feeling of being worthless and discarded.
* **Consequence of Judgment:** In the context of Lamentations, being made into **refuse** is a direct result of divine judgment. The action verb **sûwm** `{{H7760}}` shows that this state is an appointment from God.
* **Loss of Chosen Status:** Being made **refuse** among the "people" `{{H5971}}` signifies a reversal of status. Instead of being a treasured nation set apart by God, the speaker feels they are now viewed as the lowest of the low among the other peoples of the world.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{H3973}}` appears only once, its meaning is sharp and significant. As **refuse**, it encapsulates the profound sense of worthlessness and rejection at the heart of the lament in [[Lamentations 3:45]]. Paired with "offscouring" `{{H5501}}` and enacted by the verb "to put" `{{H7760}}`, it serves as a powerful theological term describing the experience of divine judgment and the feeling of being utterly cast away before God and the nations.
TRV