from אָמַץ; strength, i.e. (plural) resources; force.
Transliteration:maʼămâts
Pronunciation:mah-am-awts'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew noun `{{H3981}}` (מַאֲמָץ, *maʼămâts*) is derived from the verbal root `{{H553}}` (אָמַץ, *ʼamats*), which signifies "to be strong, stout, bold, or alert." As a noun, `{{H3981}}` encapsulates the concept of strength, force, or resources. The base definition suggests a capacity or means by which power is exerted or sustained. While the root emphasizes the *state* of being strong or courageous, `{{H3981}}` points to the *manifestation* or *source* of that strength, particularly in its plural sense as "resources" – the accumulated means or power available for action. It is not merely an inherent quality but that which can be drawn upon or demonstrated.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
`{{H3981}}` is a rare word in the Hebrew Bible, appearing only once in the Masoretic Text. This singular occurrence is found in the book of Isaiah:
* **[[Isaiah 33:13]]**: "Hear, you who are far off, what I have done; and you who are near, acknowledge my strength."
* In this verse, the word appears in the first person singular possessive form, מַאֲמַצִּי (*maʼamatsiy*), meaning "my strength" or "my resources." The context of Isaiah 33 is a prophetic oracle concerning God's judgment upon Assyria and the subsequent deliverance and restoration of Zion. The chapter opens with a woe against the destroyer (Assyria) and then shifts to a prayer for divine intervention.
* [[Isaiah 33:13]] serves as a divine proclamation, a call from the Lord for all people, both "far off" (Gentiles, distant nations) and "near" (Israel, those within the covenant), to recognize and acknowledge His mighty deeds and His inherent, undeniable strength. This "strength" (`{{H3981}}`) refers to God's omnipotence, His capacity to execute judgment, to bring about salvation, and to fulfill His sovereign purposes. It is not merely physical might but the comprehensive power and inexhaustible resources of the divine being that enable Him to act decisively in history. The call to "acknowledge" implies a recognition of His unique and unparalleled power in contrast to the transient might of human empires.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the root verb `{{H553}}` (אָמַץ, *ʼamats*), "to be strong, firm, courageous." Other related nouns derived from this root include:
* `{{H554}}` (אָמֵץ, *ʼamets*): An adjective meaning "strong, mighty."
* `{{H555}}` (אֹמֶץ, *ʼomets*): A noun meaning "strength" or "power," similar in semantic range to `{{H3981}}` but perhaps without the explicit nuance of "resources."
Conceptually, `{{H3981}}` is closely tied to:
* **Divine Omnipotence**: God's absolute and unlimited power.
* **Sovereignty**: His supreme authority and control over all creation and history.
* **Might/Power**: The inherent ability to accomplish all His will.
* **Resources**: The means or capacity at His disposal to achieve His purposes, whether in judgment or salvation.
* **Fortitude/Steadfastness**: While the root implies courage, `{{H3981}}` points to the unwavering and inexhaustible nature of God's power.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of `{{H3981}}` in [[Isaiah 33:13]] carries profound theological weight. It is a direct divine declaration, emphasizing God's absolute and unparalleled power. The context of judgment and deliverance highlights that God's "strength" (maʼămâts) is the ultimate force behind all events, whether punitive or redemptive.
This word underscores several key theological truths:
1. **God's Self-Revelation**: He calls all humanity to witness His deeds and acknowledge His unique strength, revealing Himself as the supreme actor in history.
2. **Inexhaustible Power**: Unlike human strength or resources which are finite and can fail, God's `{{H3981}}` is boundless and never depleted. It is the infinite wellspring from which all creation derives its existence and by which all things are sustained and governed.
3. **Reliability and Faithfulness**: The declaration of His strength serves as a foundation for trust. If God possesses such maʼămâts, then His promises are certain to be fulfilled, and His judgments are inevitable.
4. **Basis for Awe and Worship**: The recognition of God's immense `{{H3981}}` should evoke reverence, humility, and worship from all who perceive it.
### Summary
`{{H3981}}` (מַאֲמָץ, *maʼămâts*) is a rare but potent Hebrew noun, derived from the root `{{H553}}` (אָמַץ) meaning "to be strong." It denotes strength, force, and particularly, resources or means. Its sole occurrence in [[Isaiah 33:13]] is a profound divine utterance where God commands all creation, both near and far, to "acknowledge My strength." This "strength" refers to God's omnipotent and inexhaustible power, His sovereign capacity to execute His will, whether in judgment against nations or in the glorious deliverance of His people. Theologically, `{{H3981}}` serves as a declaration of God's absolute power, His boundless resources, and His ultimate control over history, calling all to recognize and revere His unique and supreme might.
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