### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **madveh**, represented by `{{H4064}}`, means **sickness** or **disease**. It is a very specific term, appearing only **2 times** in **2 unique verses** within the Bible. Its usage is exclusively found in the book of Deuteronomy, where it refers directly to the afflictions associated with Egypt.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The context for `{{H4064}}` is tied to the covenant blessings and curses. In [[Deuteronomy 7:15]], it is used in a promise of divine protection, where the LORD pledges to keep the "**evil** diseases of Egypt" away from an obedient Israel. Conversely, in [[Deuteronomy 28:60]], it appears as a curse for disobedience, stating that God will bring upon the people "all the **diseases** of Egypt, which thou wast afraid of," causing those afflictions to "cleave" to them.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and impact of `{{H4064}}`:
* `{{H2483}}` **chŏlîy** (malady, anxiety, calamity; disease, grief, (is) sick(-ness)): This more general term for sickness appears alongside `madveh` in [[Deuteronomy 7:15]]. It is used elsewhere to describe a king's physical ailment [[2 Chronicles 16:12]] as well as a nation's spiritual state where "the whole head is sick" [[Isaiah 1:5]].
* `{{H7451}}` **raʻ** (bad or (as noun) evil (natural or moral)): This word modifies `madveh` in [[Deuteronomy 7:15]], describing the diseases as "**evil**." It highlights their nature as a severe affliction or calamity from God.
* `{{H3025}}` **yâgôr** (to fear; be afraid, fear): This term is directly linked to the diseases of Egypt in [[Deuteronomy 28:60]]. The passage emphasizes that the very sicknesses Israel was "**afraid** of" would be brought upon them as a consequence of their sin.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4064}}` is concentrated in its role within the Mosaic covenant.
* **Instrument of Covenant Judgment:** The appearance of `madveh` is exclusively in the context of covenant enforcement. It serves as a tangible outcome of Israel's national obedience or disobedience ([[Deuteronomy 7:15]], [[Deuteronomy 28:60]]).
* **Reminder of the Exodus:** By specifically labeling the afflictions as "diseases of Egypt," the term invokes the memory of the plagues. It demonstrates that the same power God used to judge Egypt could be turned upon His own people if they broke the covenant.
* **Connection Between Fear and Consequence:** The use of `{{H3025}}` in [[Deuteronomy 28:60]] shows that the curse involves not just physical suffering, but a psychological component where the people’s greatest fears are realized as a direct result of their actions.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4064}}` is a precise and potent term for **disease**. It is not a generic word for illness but is narrowly defined as the afflictions of Egypt. Its use in scripture frames sickness as a tool of divine power, employed either as a promised protection for the faithful or a terrifying judgment upon the disobedient, linking physical health directly to the spiritual state of the covenant nation.
TRV