### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mibṭâch**, represented by `{{H4009}}`, denotes a refuge, security, assurance, confidence, hope, or trust. It is derived from the root word for trust, בָּטַח (bâṭach). It appears 15 times across 15 unique verses, highlighting its specific and significant role in describing the foundation of one's security.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In Scripture, `{{H4009}}` is used to draw a sharp contrast between legitimate and illegitimate sources of security. The LORD is presented as the only true object of **hope** [[Jeremiah 17:7]] and **trust** [[Psalms 40:4]]. In contrast, placing **confidence** in foreign nations like Egypt is shown to lead to a "remembrance of iniquity" [[Ezekiel 29:16]], and trust in idols like Chemosh results in shame [[Jeremiah 48:13]]. The word also describes the practical outcome of true faith, where God's people will live in "**sure** dwellings" [[Isaiah 32:18]]. Conversely, **confidence** in an unfaithful person is compared to a "broken tooth" and a "foot out of joint" [[Proverbs 25:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of biblical trust:
* `{{H982}}` **bâṭach**: This is the primitive root from which **mibṭâch** is derived. It means to trust or be confident, often used in direct commands to **trust** in the LORD with all one's heart [[Proverbs 3:5]].
* `{{H4268}}` **machăçeh**: Meaning a shelter or place of **refuge**, this word often appears alongside terms of trust. It highlights God as a physical and spiritual safe haven, with [[Proverbs 14:26]] stating that strong **confidence** `{{H4009}}` in the LORD provides a **place of refuge** `{{H4268}}` for one's children.
* `{{H5797}}` **ʻôz**: This term for **strength** is directly connected to confidence. God is described as our **strength** [[Psalms 46:1]], and a wise man can cast down the **strength** `{{H5797}}` of a city's **confidence** `{{H4009}}` [[Proverbs 21:22]].
* `{{H3689}}` **keçel**: This word can mean **hope** or confidence, but also folly. It is used in parallel with **mibṭâch** when Job speaks of making gold his **hope** `{{H3689}}` or **confidence** `{{H4009}}` [[Job 31:24]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4009}}` is centered on the object of one's faith.
* **The Divine Source of Trust:** Scripture repeatedly identifies God as the only proper foundation for **confidence**. He is the **confidence** of all the ends of the earth [[Psalms 65:5]], and the man who makes the LORD his **trust** is blessed [[Psalms 40:4]]. In the Psalms, David declares God to be his **trust** from his youth [[Psalms 71:5]].
* **The Danger of Misplaced Confidence:** The Bible warns that any **confidence** placed outside of God is futile. The Lord rejects the "confidences" of those who look to other sources, ensuring they will not prosper [[Jeremiah 2:37]]. This misplaced **trust** is likened to a fragile "spider's web" [[Job 8:14]] and is ultimately rooted out and brought to ruin [[Job 18:14]].
* **Assurance as a Result of Fear of the Lord:** True, "strong **confidence**" is a direct result of the "fear of the LORD" [[Proverbs 14:26]]. This establishes a clear spiritual principle: reverent awe and obedience to God produce a profound sense of security and assurance.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4009}}` functions as a crucial theological term that defines the very nature of faith. It moves beyond a simple feeling of hope to an objective declaration of where one's security is placed. Whether used to describe the assurance found in God or the folly of trusting in man, wealth, or nations, **mibṭâch** consistently forces a choice, illustrating that the foundation of one's trust determines one's ultimate spiritual destiny.
TRV