### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term H4154 (מוּעֶדֶת, mûwʻedeth) is a feminine passive participle derived from the root `{{H4609}}` (מָעַד, ma'ad), which means "to slip," "to totter," or "to waver." As a passive participle, mûwʻedeth describes a state of having been caused to slip, or being in a condition of instability. Its core meaning thus conveys the sense of being "made to slip," "dislocated," or "out of joint." This implies a profound physical instability, a state where one's equilibrium is lost, leading to vulnerability and potential collapse. The semantic range extends from a literal physical injury or misalignment to a metaphorical state of being on the verge of falling, whether physically, emotionally, or spiritually.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The Strong's lexicon and various concordances link H4154 primarily to a single conceptual occurrence within the Hebrew Bible, found in [[Psalm 38:17]]. While the precise form מוּעֶדֶת (mûwʻedeth) does not explicitly appear in the Masoretic Text of this verse, the underlying root `{{H4609}}` (ma'ad) is conceptually present in the psalmist's lament. In [[Psalm 38:17]], the psalmist declares, "For I am ready to halt, and my sorrow is continually before me" (KJV) or "For I am ready to fall, and my pain is ever before me" (ESV). The phrase "ready to halt" (לְצֶלַע נָכוֹן, le-tsela' nakon) conveys a sense of being prepared for or on the verge of stumbling, limping, or collapsing. The connection of H4154 to this verse emphasizes the idea of being "dislocated" or "out of joint" as a powerful metaphor for the psalmist's extreme physical suffering, emotional distress, and overall vulnerability. The context of Psalm 38 is a fervent cry for divine intervention amidst severe affliction, where the psalmist describes himself as weak, diseased, forsaken by friends, and targeted by enemies. The feeling of being "out of joint" perfectly encapsulates this profound state of physical and existential disarray.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the verbal root `{{H4609}}` (מָעַד, ma'ad), from which H4154 is derived. This root consistently denotes slipping, tottering, or wavering, often in contexts of instability or impending fall (e.g., [[Psalm 18:36]], [[Psalm 37:31]]). Other related concepts and words that convey similar themes of instability, falling, or distress include:
* `{{H3782}}` (כָּשַׁל, kashal): "to stumble, totter, fall," frequently used for moral or physical downfall.
* `{{H4170}}` (מוֹט, mot): "a shaking," "a slipping," "a tottering," often referring to instability of foundations or individuals.
* `{{H6031}}` (אָנַח, 'anah): "to groan, sigh," indicating deep distress and physical pain.
* `{{H2470}}` (חָלָה, chalah): "to be sick, weak, diseased," describing physical affliction.
* `{{H6654}}` (צֶלַע, tsela'): "limping," "a side," as seen in the phrase "ready to halt" in [[Psalm 38:17]], which implies a physical impairment.
These words collectively paint a picture of profound human frailty, vulnerability, and the experience of suffering that can lead one to feel utterly destabilized.
### Theological Significance
The conceptual presence of H4154 in [[Psalm 38:17]] carries significant theological weight. It vividly portrays the human condition of extreme vulnerability and the devastating impact of suffering, whether from physical ailment, emotional distress, or the consequences of sin. The psalmist's confession of being "ready to fall" or "out of joint" underscores a complete loss of self-reliance and stability. Theologically, this state of being utterly dislocated highlights the profound need for divine intervention and support. When one's own foundations are "out of joint," reliance on God becomes the sole source of stability and hope. This lament also points to the reality of suffering in a fallen world and the biblical affirmation that even the righteous can experience profound physical and emotional agony. Furthermore, it can be seen as a metaphor for spiritual backsliding or the consequences of moral compromise, where one's spiritual equilibrium is lost, leading to a state of being "out of joint" with God's will. Ultimately, this word, in its context, serves as a poignant cry for God's steadfast love and restorative power in the face of overwhelming personal brokenness.
### Summary
H4154 (מוּעֶדֶת, mûwʻedeth) is a feminine passive participle meaning "made to slip," "dislocated," or "out of joint," derived from the root `{{H4609}}` ("to slip, totter"). While its precise form is conceptually linked rather than explicitly present in the Masoretic Text, it profoundly informs the understanding of the psalmist's cry in [[Psalm 38:17]], "For I am ready to halt" or "ready to fall." This term encapsulates a state of extreme physical and emotional vulnerability, instability, and impending collapse. Theologically, H4154 underscores the human experience of frailty and suffering, emphasizing the absolute dependence on God when one's very being feels "out of joint." It serves as a powerful reminder of divine sovereignty over affliction and the ultimate hope found in God's sustaining power amidst profound personal distress.
TRV