the same as מִבְצָר; Mibtsar, an Idumaean; Mibzar.
Transliteration:Mibtsâr
Pronunciation:mib-tsawr'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term H4014 (מִבְצָר, *Mibtsâr*) functions primarily as a proper noun, designating an individual. Its core meaning is best understood by its direct linguistic relationship to `{{H4013}}` (מִבְצָר, *mibtsar*), a common noun meaning "fortification," "fortress," or "stronghold." Thus, the name *Mibtsâr* inherently carries the semantic weight of strength, protection, and impregnability. While H4014 itself does not denote a place or an abstract concept of strength, its etymological root imbues the name with a symbolic significance, suggesting characteristics associated with a fortified structure. This derivation points to an individual whose name evokes the imagery of a secure and unassailable position.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The proper noun H4014 occurs twice in the Hebrew Bible, both times within genealogical lists pertaining to the descendants of Esau, the Edomites:
* [[Genesis 36:42]]: "Duke Mibzar, Duke Magdiel, Duke Iram; these were the chiefs of Edom, according to their dwelling places in the land of their possession. This is Esau, the father of the Edomites."
* [[1 Chronicles 1:53]]: "Duke Mibzar, Duke Magdiel, Duke Iram. These were the chiefs of Edom."
In both instances, Mibtsar is listed as one of the "chiefs" or "dukes" (אֲלּוּפֵי, *’allûphê*) of Edom. These lists serve to delineate the lineage and leadership structure of the Edomite nation, highlighting their distinct identity and tribal organization. The placement of Mibtsar among these prominent figures underscores his significance within the Edomite aristocracy. The repetition across Genesis and 1 Chronicles emphasizes the importance of these genealogical records for understanding the broader historical and ethnic landscape of the ancient Near East, particularly in relation to Israel's neighbors. The name "Fortress" for an Edomite chief may subtly reflect the perceived strength and resilience of the Edomite people, who inhabited a rugged, mountainous region well-suited for defensive strongholds.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most significant related word to H4014 is `{{H4013}}` (מִבְצָר, *mibtsar*), the common noun from which the proper noun is derived. `{{H4013}}` is used extensively throughout the Old Testament to refer to literal fortifications, cities, or strongholds (e.g., [[Numbers 32:17]], [[Joshua 10:20]], [[Isaiah 17:3]]). This connection underscores the symbolic weight of the name Mibtsar.
Beyond this direct linguistic link, H4014 relates to broader biblical concepts of strength, security, and defense. Other Hebrew terms conveying similar ideas include:
* `{{H4686}}` (מָצוֹר, *matsor*): often refers to a siege or a fortified place.
* `{{H5797}}` (עֹז, *‘oz*): denotes strength, power, or might, often attributed to God or to fortified places.
* `{{H6434}}` (פֶּלֶט, *pelet*): signifies escape or deliverance, often from a place of danger, implying the need for a stronghold.
The concept of a "fortress" also carries significant theological weight, as God Himself is frequently described as a "fortress" or "stronghold" for His people ([[Psalm 18:2]], [[Psalm 91:2]], [[Nahum 1:7]]), contrasting human-made defenses with divine protection.
### Theological Significance
As a proper noun, the direct theological significance of H4014 (Mibtsar) is limited to its role within the biblical genealogies. However, its etymological meaning—"fortress"—offers a subtle theological reflection. The inclusion of Edomite chiefs, whose names often carried symbolic meaning, in the sacred texts speaks to God's comprehensive sovereignty over all nations, not just Israel. The name "Fortress" for an Edomite chief might reflect the human tendency to rely on physical strength and fortified positions for security, a characteristic often associated with Edom in its conflicts with Israel.
From a broader theological perspective, the name Mibtsar can serve as a poignant contrast to the divine "fortress" of the Lord. While human "fortresses" like Mibtsar represent earthly power and defense, they are ultimately transient and subject to divine will. The biblical narrative consistently demonstrates that true security and impregnable strength reside not in human fortifications or powerful leaders, but in the Lord God, who alone is the ultimate refuge and stronghold for His people. The enumeration of these Edomite chiefs, including one named "Fortress," ultimately highlights the divine hand that orchestrates the rise and fall of all peoples, even those outside the direct covenant line.
### Summary
H4014 (מִבְצָר, *Mibtsâr*) is a Hebrew proper noun, identifying one of the chiefs of Edom, a descendant of Esau. Its meaning is derived from `{{H4013}}` (מִבְצָר, *mibtsar*), which signifies "fortification," "fortress," or "stronghold." This name appears in the genealogical records of [[Genesis 36:42]] and [[1 Chronicles 1:53]], underscoring Mibtsar's position within the Edomite aristocracy. While H4014 itself does not carry direct theological doctrine, its inherent meaning of "fortress" subtly points to the themes of human strength and reliance on earthly defenses, contrasting implicitly with the biblical portrayal of God as the ultimate, unassailable "fortress" for His people. The inclusion of such a name in sacred scripture also affirms God's sovereign oversight of all nations and their leaders.
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