### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mâbush**, represented by `{{H4016}}`, refers to the **(male) pudenda** or **secrets**. It is a very specific term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its singular use highlights a particular point of law regarding physical altercations and appropriate conduct.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H4016}}` is in [[Deuteronomy 25:11]]. This verse outlines a specific scenario where two men are in a fight, or striving together. As the conflict unfolds, the wife of one of the men draws near to deliver her husband from his attacker. She intervenes by putting forth her hand and taking the other man by his **secrets**. The law directly addresses this particular act of intervention.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from the passage illuminate the context of this law:
* `{{H5327}}` **nâtsâh**: This root means to **strive (together)** or quarrel. It establishes the context of physical conflict in which the term `{{H4016}}` is found [[Deuteronomy 25:11]]. This word is also used to describe disputes between men [[Exodus 2:13]] and the striving of the congregation against Moses and Aaron [[Numbers 26:9]].
* `{{H5337}}` **nâtsal**: Meaning to **deliver**, rescue, or snatch away, this word describes the wife's motivation. Her intent is to **deliver** her husband from the hand of his opponent [[Deuteronomy 25:11]]. The term is frequently used for God's action of delivering His people from their troubles [[Psalms 34:17]] or out of the hand of their enemies [[Exodus 3:8]].
* `{{H2388}}` **châzaq**: Translated as **taketh** in this passage, this verb means to fasten upon or seize. It describes the physical act of grabbing the man [[Deuteronomy 25:11]]. While used here for a prohibited act, the word is often used positively in commands to "be strong" [[Joshua 1:9]] or to describe encouraging oneself in the Lord [[1 Samuel 30:6]].
### Theological Significance
The conceptual weight of `{{H4016}}` is found in the legal and ethical principle it illustrates.
* **The Context of Conflict:** The law is set within a scenario where men **strive** `{{H5327}}` together, acknowledging that such disputes are a part of human experience [[Deuteronomy 25:11]].
* **An Act of Deliverance:** The wife's intervention is motivated by a desire to **deliver** `{{H5337}}` her husband from harm. This drive to rescue a family member is a powerful one, echoed in God's promises to **deliver** His people from their enemies [[Exodus 3:8]].
* **A Prohibited Method:** The law's focus is on the method of intervention. By seizing the man's **secrets** `{{H4016}}`, the woman crosses a line. This shows that even with a justifiable motive, certain actions that violate human dignity are forbidden.
### Summary
In summary, **mâbush** `{{H4016}}` is a highly specific term that, despite its single use, establishes a significant legal boundary. It denotes the male **pudenda** within the context of a physical struggle described in [[Deuteronomy 25:11]]. Its appearance in scripture serves to illustrate that in matters of conflict and intervention, the means are as important as the motive, and certain actions remain prohibited regardless of the circumstances.