from the same as גַּם; properly, accumulation, i.e. impulse or direction; sup up.
Transliteration:mᵉgammâh
Pronunciation:meg-am-maw'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew noun מְגַמָּה (mᵉgammâh, `{{H4041}}`) is derived from the same root as גַּם (gam, `{{H1571}}`), which typically conveys ideas of addition, inclusion, or intensification ("also," "even," "moreover"). This etymological connection suggests a core semantic range related to gathering, accumulating, or a strong, unified movement. The base definition provided includes "accumulation," "impulse," and "direction."
"Accumulation" implies a heaping up or gathering together, suggesting a large quantity or a concentrated mass. "Impulse" points to an inner drive, a strong inclination, or a forceful motivation. "Direction" indicates a clear aim, purpose, or trajectory. While "sup up" is also listed in some lexical entries, its application to the single biblical occurrence of this word is less clear than the concepts of accumulation, impulse, or direction, which resonate more strongly with the contextual usage. The dominant sense appears to be a concentrated force or a unified, purposeful movement.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The noun מְגַמָּה (mᵉgammâh, `{{H4041}}`) appears only once in the entire Hebrew Bible, specifically in [[Ezekiel 23:24]]. This singular occurrence necessitates a careful examination of its immediate context to discern its precise meaning.
[[Ezekiel 23:24]]: "And they shall come against thee with chariots, wagons, and wheels, and with a *multitude* of people, which shall set against thee buckler and shield and helmet round about: and I will set judgment before them, and they shall judge thee according to their judgments."
The chapter [[Ezekiel 23]] is an allegorical prophecy detailing the spiritual harlotry of Oholah (Samaria) and Oholibah (Jerusalem), representing the northern and southern kingdoms of Israel, respectively. They are condemned for their idolatry and unfaithfulness to Yahweh, pursuing alliances with foreign nations. In [[Ezekiel 23:24]], God declares that He will bring judgment upon Oholibah (Jerusalem) through various nations. The word mᵉgammâh describes the attacking force.
Translations vary:
* King James Version: "assembly"
* New American Standard Bible: "a multitude"
* English Standard Version: "a multitude"
* New International Version: "a horde"
* New Living Translation: "a vast army"
In this context, mᵉgammâh clearly refers to a large, gathered body of people, specifically a military force. The sense of "accumulation" is evident in the idea of a vast number of soldiers. The sense of "impulse" or "direction" is also fitting, as this "multitude" is not random but comes with a clear, unified purpose: to execute God's judgment. The Septuagint (LXX) translates it with *συνδρομή* (syndromē), meaning "a running together," "concourse," or "assemblage," which supports the understanding of a collected, purposeful gathering.
### Related Words & Concepts
Given its singular occurrence, the semantic field of mᵉgammâh (`{{H4041}}`) is best understood by its etymological root and contextual synonyms.
* **גַּם (gam, `{{H1571}}`):** The root word, meaning "also," "even," "moreover," reinforces the idea of adding to or accumulating.
* **הָמוֹן (hamon, `{{H1995}}`):** This common Hebrew word means "multitude," "crowd," "noise," or "tumult." It often describes a large gathering, especially of people, and frequently in a military context (e.g., [[1 Samuel 4:14]], [[Isaiah 13:4]]). The contextual meaning of mᵉgammâh in [[Ezekiel 23:24]] is very similar to hamon.
* **קָהָל (qahal, `{{H6951}}`):** "Assembly," "congregation." While often used for a religious gathering, it can also refer to a general assembly.
* **עַם (am, `{{H5971}}`):** "People," "nation." A general term for a collective group of individuals.
* **חַיִל (chayil, `{{H2428}}`):** "Strength," "ability," often used to denote an "army" or "host."
These related terms highlight that mᵉgammâh, in its sole biblical usage, functions as a powerful descriptor of a large, formidable, and purposefully directed force.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of mᵉgammâh (`{{H4041}}`) is intrinsically tied to its single appearance in [[Ezekiel 23:24]] within the context of divine judgment.
1. **Instrument of Divine Judgment:** The "multitude" or "assembly" described by mᵉgammâh is not merely a human army but an instrument explicitly raised by God to execute His righteous judgment against Jerusalem's covenant unfaithfulness. This underscores God's sovereignty over nations and their military actions; even hostile forces are ultimately under His control and serve His purposes.
2. **Overwhelming and Irresistible Judgment:** The meaning of "accumulation" or "vast army" conveys the overwhelming nature of the impending judgment. It is not a scattered or weak attack, but a concentrated, formidable force designed to bring about complete devastation. This emphasizes the certainty and severity of God's response to persistent rebellion.
3. **Purposeful Direction:** If the "direction" or "impulse" aspect of the word is emphasized, it highlights the deliberate and purposeful nature of this divine action. The attacking "multitude" has a clear, unified aim, fulfilling God's decree with precision and resolve. There is no randomness in the unfolding of God's judgment; it is a directed, intentional act.
Thus, mᵉgammâh serves to illustrate the powerful, unified, and divinely directed nature of the forces God employs to bring about His just recompense upon unfaithful humanity.
### Summary
The Hebrew word מְגַמָּה (mᵉgammâh, `{{H4041}}`) is a rare and potent noun, appearing only once in [[Ezekiel 23:24]]. Derived from the root גַּם (gam, `{{H1571}}`), its core meaning revolves around "accumulation," "impulse," and "direction." In its sole biblical context, mᵉgammâh describes the "multitude" or "assembly" of invading warriors who are instruments of God's judgment against unfaithful Jerusalem. The word conveys the sense of a large, concentrated, and purposefully directed force. Theologically, mᵉgammâh underscores God's absolute sovereignty, demonstrating how even powerful human armies act as His agents to execute His overwhelming and irresistible judgments, revealing the precise and intentional nature of divine justice.
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