The Hebrew word mûwlâh, represented by H4139, means circumcision. It is derived from the word מוּל. This specific term is exceptionally rare, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire biblical text.
The sole appearance of H4139 is in Exodus 4:26. This verse captures a moment of intense crisis where Zipporah, Moses' wife, performs a circumcision. After the act, she declares, "A bloody husband thou art, because of the circumcision." This statement is made immediately after God "let him go," indicating that the act of circumcision was the direct cause for deliverance from a mortal threat. The word is therefore used to signify a specific, decisive act that averts judgment.
The context of H4139 in Exodus 4:26 is illuminated by the words used alongside it:
- H1818 dâm (blood...): This word is central to the declaration, as Zipporah's act is described in relation to blood. This term is also linked to the concept of covenant Exodus 24:8 and is described as making atonement for the soul Leviticus 17:11.
- H2860 châthân (a relative by marriage...): This is the word for "husband" in the phrase. Its definition also includes the figurative meaning of "a circumcised child," tying the concept of marriage and family relations directly to the rite. Elsewhere, it is commonly used to mean "bridegroom" Joel 2:16.
- H7503 râphâh (to slacken...): This verb describes the outcome of the circumcision, as God "let him go." It signifies a release or cessation from pressure or attack. It is also used to command stillness before God Psalms 46:10 and to promise that God will not fail or forsake His people Joshua 1:5.
- H559 ʼâmar (to say...): This simple verb for "said" is used for Zipporah's pivotal declaration, highlighting the importance of her spoken words which define the event. It is frequently used to introduce divine speech, as in "Thus saith the LORD" Isaiah 48:17.
Despite its single use, the theological weight of H4139 is significant based on its context.
- Sign of Deliverance: The act of circumcision is presented as the direct means of salvation from divine judgment, establishing it as a critical rite of obedience and preservation.
- Connection to Blood Atonement: Paired with the word dâm H1818, the verse connects circumcision to the shedding of blood. The provided verses show that blood is foundational to covenant Exodus 24:8 and atonement Leviticus 17:11, suggesting the circumcision in this context functions as an atoning act.
- Covenant Responsibility: The event revolves around the family unit, specifically the relationship between husband and wife and the status of their child. It underscores that carrying out covenant signs like circumcision is a matter of life and death.
In summary, H4139 provides a powerful and focused snapshot of the meaning of circumcision. Though used only once, its appearance in Exodus 4:26 is dramatic, linking the physical rite directly to deliverance, blood, and covenantal obligation. It demonstrates that even the rarest of biblical words can anchor a profound theological event, revealing the high stakes of obedience to God's commands.
TRV