The Hebrew word mibchâr, represented by H4005, denotes that which is select, i.e. best; choice(-st), chosen. It appears 12 times across 12 unique verses in the Bible. Derived from the root verb meaning to select or choose H977, it consistently refers to the highest quality or the most elite among people, objects, and promises.
In biblical usage, H4005 identifies the pinnacle of value in several contexts. It is used to describe elite groups of people, such as Pharaoh's "chosen captains" who were drowned in the Red sea Exodus 15:4 and Moab's "chosen young men" destined for slaughter Jeremiah 48:15. The term also applies to the finest natural resources, like the "choice cedars" and "choice fir trees" of Lebanon that are marked for destruction (Jeremiah 22:7, Isaiah 37:24). It signifies the best of offerings and commitments, such as the "choice vows" made to the Lord Deuteronomy 12:11 and the "choice of the flock" used in a symbolic boiling Ezekiel 24:5.
Several related words help clarify the meaning of that which is chosen as best:
- H977 bâchar (select): This is the primitive root from which mibchâr is derived. It signifies the act of choosing. In Deuteronomy 12:11, God will choose H977 a place where the Israelites are to bring their choice H4005 vows.
- H970 bâchûwr (selected, i.e. a youth): This term, also from the same root, is used in conjunction with H4005 to describe the "chosen young men" of Moab, emphasizing an elite class of warriors Jeremiah 48:15.
- H7991 shâlîysh (captain): This word for a high-ranking military officer is used to specify who was among the "chosen" H4005 of Pharaoh's army, highlighting the application of the term to elite leadership Exodus 15:4.
The theological weight of H4005 is significant, highlighting a divine standard and the object of divine action.
- The Principle of Firstfruits: The use of mibchâr for vows Deuteronomy 12:11 and parts of a symbolic sacrifice (Ezekiel 24:4, Ezekiel 24:5) underscores the principle of offering God not just what is acceptable, but what is best.
- Judgment on Human Strength: The term is often used to describe the best that humanity has to offer, which is then subjected to God's judgment. The "chosen people" of the south cannot withstand the northern king Daniel 11:15, and the "choice cedars" are cut down by destroyers prepared by God Jeremiah 22:7.
- A Standard of Supreme Value: Whether in a gesture of honor, as when Abraham is offered the "choice of our sepulchres" Genesis 23:6, or in describing the majesty of Eden's trees as the "choice and best of Lebanon" Ezekiel 31:16, the word establishes a benchmark for the highest quality.
In summary, H4005 is more than a simple descriptor of preference. It signifies the result of a deliberate selection, representing the very pinnacle of value. It is applied to elite warriors, prized resources, and sacred offerings. The word carries a powerful theological message, teaching that while humans should offer their best to God, even the "choicest" of human assets are ultimately subject to His sovereign power and judgment.
TRV