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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
TRV