a denominative from מָגֵן; properly, to shield; encompass with; figuratively, to rescue, to hand safely over (i.e. surrender); deliver.
Transliteration:mâgan
Pronunciation:maw-gan'
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew verb `{{H4042}}` (mâgan) is a denominative verb derived from the noun `{{H4043}}` (magen), which means "shield." This etymological root immediately suggests concepts of protection, defense, and encompassing. Thus, at its most literal, `{{H4042}}` means "to shield" or "to encompass with a shield," implying an act of safeguarding.
However, the primary attested usages in the biblical text extend this core meaning figuratively. The verb takes on the sense of "to deliver," "to hand over," or "to bestow." The nuance of "safely" in the base definition "to hand safely over" implies a secure and complete transfer, whether of an object, a person, or a state. While the definition includes "(i.e. surrender)," this should be understood not as a forced giving up in defeat, but rather as a definitive and secure act of transferring control or possession, often with a positive outcome for the recipient of the delivery. The underlying idea of the "shield" may subtly inform these extended meanings, suggesting that the delivery or bestowal is either done under divine protection or results in a state of security for the recipient.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb `{{H4042}}` appears in the Hebrew Bible in only two distinct contexts, both of which illuminate its semantic range:
1. **[[Genesis 14:20]]**: "And blessed be God Most High, who has delivered your enemies into your hand!" Here, `{{H4042}}` describes a divine act. God is the subject, and Abraham's enemies are the object, delivered "into your hand" (בְּיָדֶךָ). In this context, "delivered" signifies God's powerful intervention to grant victory and transfer control of the adversaries to Abraham. The act is one of decisive and effective transfer, leading to Abraham's triumph. The "shield" root might subtly imply God's role as Abraham's protector, through whom this delivery of enemies is achieved.
2. **[[Proverbs 4:9]]**: "She will place on your head a graceful garland; she will bestow on you a beautiful crown." In this verse, personified Wisdom is the subject, and the "beautiful crown" (עֲטֶרֶת תִּפְאֶרֶת) is the object. Here, `{{H4042}}` is translated as "bestow" or "give." It speaks of Wisdom's generosity in granting honor and beauty to those who embrace her. This usage highlights the aspect of "handing over" something valuable and desirable. The transfer is one of blessing and adornment, securely given by Wisdom.
From these two occurrences, it is clear that `{{H4042}}` primarily denotes a complete and effective act of transferring something or someone from one entity to another, whether it be enemies into the hand of a victor or a crown onto the head of the wise. The "surrender" aspect of the base definition is best understood as a definitive "giving over" or "delivery," rather than a capitulation.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct linguistic relation to `{{H4042}}` is its root noun, `{{H4043}}` (magen), meaning "shield." This connection emphasizes the underlying concept of protection and security, which subtly influences the verb's meaning of secure delivery or bestowal.
Other related concepts and verbs include:
* `{{H5414}}` (nathan): A very common Hebrew verb meaning "to give," "to put," or "to set." While broader in scope, `{{H4042}}` shares the semantic domain of transfer, but with a more specific nuance of "handing over" or "delivering" often with a sense of control or possession.
* `{{H3027}}` (yad): "Hand." This noun frequently appears in conjunction with verbs of giving or delivering, as seen in [[Genesis 14:20]], where enemies are delivered "into the hand" of Abraham, signifying transfer of power and control.
* Concepts of Divine Providence, victory, protection, and the bestowal of blessings are all intimately connected to the usage of `{{H4042}}`.
### Theological Significance
The limited but profound occurrences of `{{H4042}}` carry significant theological weight.
In [[Genesis 14:20]], the use of `{{H4042}}` underscores God's sovereignty and active involvement in human affairs. God is portrayed as the ultimate Deliverer, capable of transferring power and ensuring victory for His chosen ones. This act of "delivering" enemies into Abraham's hand is a demonstration of divine faithfulness and omnipotence, assuring the patriarch of God's protective presence and commitment to His covenant promises. It highlights that true security and triumph come from God, who effectively "hands over" obstacles and adversaries.
In [[Proverbs 4:9]], the verb shifts from divine action to the personified Wisdom's action. Wisdom "bestows" a crown, signifying the honor, beauty, and authority that accompany a life lived in accordance with divine principles. This illustrates that wisdom is not merely an abstract concept but an active agent that grants tangible blessings. The "bestowal" implies a secure and lasting gift, one that adorns and elevates the recipient. The underlying concept of "shield" from the root noun may subtly suggest that wisdom itself acts as a protective adornment, guarding the one who possesses it.
Together, these verses illustrate a dual aspect of God's character and His divine order: He is the powerful Deliverer who grants victory and protection, and He is the generous Bestower who blesses those who walk in wisdom.
### Summary
The Hebrew verb `{{H4042}}` (mâgan), derived from the noun "shield" (`{{H4043}}`), carries the core meaning of "to shield" but is primarily used in the biblical text to signify "to deliver," "to hand over," or "to bestow." While its etymology suggests protection, its usage emphasizes the secure and complete transfer of something or someone.
In [[Genesis 14:20]], it describes God's powerful act of delivering Abraham's enemies into his hand, signifying divine intervention, victory, and the transfer of control. In [[Proverbs 4:9]], it refers to Wisdom's act of bestowing a graceful garland and a beautiful crown, highlighting the blessings and honor that accompany the pursuit of wisdom.
Thus, `{{H4042}}` points to God as the ultimate Giver and Deliverer, who acts decisively to secure the well-being and honor of His people, and through whom blessings are securely bestowed. The nuance of "safely" in its base definition is evident in the positive and definitive outcomes of these transfers in the biblical narrative.
TRV