### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mûwd**, represented by `{{H4128}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to shake** or **measure**. It is a rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** within the biblical text. This singular appearance occurs in the context of a powerful, divine action upon the earth, where God's assessment is synonymous with His absolute authority.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The only use of `{{H4128}}` is found in [[Habakkuk 3:6]], where it depicts a monumental event. In this passage, the prophet describes God's powerful appearance: "He stood, and **measured** the earth: he beheld, and drove asunder the nations" [[Habakkuk 3:6]]. The act of measuring the earth is presented alongside other acts of divine power, such as scattering everlasting mountains and making perpetual hills bow, demonstrating God's supreme control over all of creation.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context in [[Habakkuk 3:6]] illuminate the scope of this divine act:
* `{{H5425}}` **nâthar** (to jump, i.e. be violently agitated; causatively, to terrify, shake off, untie): This word is used immediately after God "measured" the earth, showing that His assessment caused Him to **drive asunder** the nations, a direct and powerful consequence [[Habakkuk 3:6]].
* `{{H2042}}` **hârâr** (a mountain): The effect of God's presence is so great that the "everlasting **mountains** were scattered" [[Habakkuk 3:6]], symbolizing how even the most permanent fixtures of the world are disrupted by His power.
* `{{H7817}}` **shâchach** (to sink or depress; bend, bow (down), bring (cast) down): Paired with the scattering of mountains, the "perpetual hills did **bow**" [[Habakkuk 3:6]], signifying that all of creation humbles itself before God's awesome presence and judgment.
### Theological Significance
The single use of `{{H4128}}` carries significant theological weight, illustrating key aspects of God's character and power.
* **Divine Assessment and Judgment:** The act of measuring `{{H4128}}` the earth is not a passive survey. It is an active assessment that precedes judgment, as shown by the immediate scattering of nations and the upheaval of the natural landscape [[Habakkuk 3:6]].
* **Sovereignty over Creation:** God's action demonstrates His absolute authority. Things considered permanent and immovable, like "everlasting mountains" and "perpetual hills," are scattered and bow down, revealing that nothing in creation is beyond His control [[Habakkuk 3:6]].
* **The Power of God's Presence:** The passage portrays a scene where God's simple acts of standing and beholding result in cataclysmic change. His measuring of the earth is part of a sequence that terrifies nations and reshapes the physical world, highlighting the immense power inherent in His "everlasting" ways [[Habakkuk 3:6]].
### Summary
In summary, **mûwd** `{{H4128}}`, while appearing only once, offers a profound glimpse into the nature of divine power. Its use in [[Habakkuk 3:6]] frames it as an act of authoritative measurement that is intrinsically linked to shaking and judgment. The word illustrates that God's survey of His creation is not passive; it is an active, powerful engagement that reaffirms His sovereignty over all nations and the very foundations of the earth.
TRV