### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **môwṭ**, represented by `{{H4132}}`, conveys the idea of a wavering, fall, or shaking. It appears 6 times in 6 unique verses. Its definition extends from this core concept of instability to describe physical objects that can shake or are used for carrying, such as a **pole**, **staff**, **bar**, or **yoke**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H4132}}` carries several distinct meanings. Figuratively, it speaks of personal stability, where God's protection ensures one's **foot** will not **be moved** [[Psalms 121:3]] and that He holds the soul in life, not allowing the feet to **be moved** [[Psalms 66:9]]. It is also used literally as a **bar** or **staff** for carrying objects, such as the instruments of the sanctuary ([[Numbers 4:10]], [[Numbers 4:12]]) or the large cluster of grapes from the brook of Eshcol [[Numbers 13:23]]. Finally, it symbolizes oppression in the form of a **yoke** that God promises to break from his people [[Nahum 1:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which `{{H4132}}` is found:
* `{{H7272}}` **regel** (a foot): This word is directly linked to the concept of stability. In the Psalms, the promise that one's **foot** will not be moved `{{H4132}}` is a powerful metaphor for God's steadfast keeping power ([[Psalms 121:3]], [[Psalms 66:9]]).
* `{{H5423}}` **nâthaq** (to tear off; break (off), burst): This term is used to describe the action of deliverance. God declares in Nahum that He will **burst** the bonds of His people, a promise made in direct parallel to breaking the yoke `{{H4132}}` of their oppressors [[Nahum 1:13]].
* `{{H3627}}` **kᵉlîy** (instrument, utensil, vessel): This word refers to the sacred **instruments** of ministry from the sanctuary, which were carefully covered and placed on a bar `{{H4132}}` for transport, underscoring the care required for holy things [[Numbers 4:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4132}}` is seen in its dual application to divine faithfulness and human liberation.
* **Divine Stability:** The word is used negatively—to describe what God prevents from happening. The assurance that He will not suffer the righteous to **be moved** highlights God's role as a sustainer who provides unwavering support and prevents his people from stumbling ([[Psalms 121:3]], [[Psalms 66:9]]).
* **Deliverance from Bondage:** As a **yoke**, `{{H4132}}` represents servitude and affliction. God's promise to **break** this yoke is a powerful declaration of his role as a deliverer who shatters the instruments of oppression and frees his people [[Nahum 1:13]].
* **Bearing Sacred Burdens:** The use of `{{H4132}}` as a **bar** or **staff** for carrying holy items, like the tabernacle vessels, signifies the responsibility of bearing what is set apart for God. It is a tool for transporting both the articles of worship and the evidence of God's blessing ([[Numbers 4:10]], [[Numbers 13:23]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4132}}` is a versatile word that encompasses both the physical and the metaphorical. From a simple **staff** used to carry fruit to the profound symbol of a **yoke** of oppression, it consistently relates to concepts of bearing weight and stability. Theologically, it serves to contrast the danger of human wavering with the security found in God, who keeps his people from being moved and breaks the yokes that bind them.
TRV