The Hebrew word mâdôwn, represented by H4067, is a term for stature or height. It is exceptionally rare, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible. Its base definition points to extensiveness or height, and its sole use is to describe a person's physical size.
The singular use of H4067 is found in the account of a battle in Gath. The word describes "a man of great stature" who was an adversary of Israel. The text adds to this description by noting he had six fingers on each hand and six toes on each foot, and that "he also was born to the giant" 2 Samuel 21:20. The term is used purely as a physical descriptor of a formidable opponent.
One key related word provides the context for the use of H4067:
- H4421 milchâmâh (battle, war): This word for battle or war appears directly alongside H4067 in its only verse, defining the setting of conflict where physical attributes like great stature would be particularly notable. The term is used throughout scripture to describe warfare, from reminders that "the battle is not yours, but God's" 2 Chronicles 20:15 to contexts where God teaches his people to engage in battle Psalms 144:1.
While H4067 itself is a physical descriptor, its context within warfare carries narrative weight.
- Highlighting a Formidable Foe: The use of mâdôwn to describe the man in Gath emphasizes the physical challenge he represented. His "great stature" and unique physical features portray him as an intimidating enemy 2 Samuel 21:20.
- Physical Strength in the Context of Battle: The word appears exclusively in the setting of a milchâmâh (battle), linking extraordinary physical size directly to the reality of conflict and war.
- Contrast with Divine Sovereignty: The larger biblical narrative on warfare, as seen in verses related to H4421, often contrasts human strength with God's power. While enemies may have great stature, victory is not assured "to the strong" Ecclesiastes 9:11, because the Lord can be with his people in battle Deuteronomy 20:1.
In summary, H4067 mâdôwn is a highly specific term for physical stature. Its single biblical appearance serves to paint a vivid picture of a physically imposing enemy faced in battle. While the word itself denotes human size and might, its context within warfare connects to the broader biblical theme that human strength is secondary to God's sovereign power in determining the outcome of a conflict.
TRV