### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **maʼămâts**, represented by `{{H3981}}`, is a term for **strength**, **resources**, or **force**. It is derived from a root word meaning to be strong. This specific word is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in a single verse in the entire Bible, making its context particularly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, the singular use of `{{H3981}}` occurs within the discourses in the book of Job. It is found in a rhetorical question that contrasts human wealth and power with a higher, divine standard of value. The verse asks if God will value a person's riches, "no, not gold, nor all the **forces** of strength" [[Job 36:19]]. Here, `{{H3981}}` represents the sum total of humanly gathered power and resources, which are deemed insufficient.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words found in its immediate context help clarify its meaning:
* `{{H3581}}` **kôach** (vigor, force, strength, power): This word is paired directly with `{{H3981}}` to form the phrase "forces of strength" [[Job 36:19]]. It is often used to distinguish between human ability and divine power, as in the declaration, "Not by might, nor by **power**, but by my spirit" [[Zechariah 4:6]].
* `{{H6186}}` **ʻârak** (to set in a row, arrange, compare, esteem): This verb frames the entire thought in the passage, asking if one's resources will be esteemed or valued [[Job 36:19]]. It is also used to question what can possibly be compared to God [[Isaiah 40:18]].
* `{{H7769}}` **shûwaʻ** (a halloo; cry, riches): This word for "riches" is placed in parallel with "gold" and "forces of strength," emphasizing the theme of material wealth being weighed and found wanting [[Job 36:19]].
* `{{H1222}}` **bᵉtsar** (gold): Mentioned explicitly as something that will not be esteemed, this term highlights that even the most universally valued material resource has no special standing [[Job 36:19]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3981}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful appearance. It contributes to a significant biblical theme regarding the limits of human power.
* **Insufficiency of Human Resources:** The core message of [[Job 36:19]] is that no amount of accumulated "forces" or resources can influence divine judgment or measure up to God's standard.
* **Divine Power Over Human Strength:** The associated word `{{H3581}}` reinforces this idea. God is the one who gives power to the faint and whose spirit accomplishes what human might cannot ([[Isaiah 40:29]], [[Zechariah 4:6]]).
* **The Futility of Materialism:** By being grouped with "riches" `{{H7769}}` and "gold" `{{H1222}}`, `{{H3981}}` is categorized as a worldly asset that is ultimately meaningless in a spiritual context.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{H3981}}` is a rarely used term, its appearance is pivotal. It encapsulates the concept of a person's total available resources and might. Its placement in [[Job 36:19]] serves as a stark reminder of the biblical principle that human strength and material wealth are insufficient and cannot be the basis of one's standing or security. The word powerfully illustrates the inadequacy of relying on one's own "forces."
TRV