### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **môwphêth**, represented by `{{H4159}}`, describes a **miracle**, **token**, or **omen**. Based on a root meaning "conspicuousness," it refers to a wonder or an event intended to be seen. It appears 36 times across 35 unique verses, often signifying a divine act that serves as a powerful message or proof.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H4159}}` is most frequently used to describe the "signs and **wonders**" that God performed to deliver Israel from Egypt. These acts are cited as evidence of God's unique power to intervene on behalf of his people ([[Deuteronomy 4:34]], [[Exodus 7:3]], [[Nehemiah 9:10]]). The term is also used for a specific **sign** given by a prophet to authenticate a divine message, as when the altar was rent as a **sign** ([[1 Kings 13:3]], [[1 Kings 13:5]]). Beyond supernatural events, individuals can be described as a **wonder** or **sign**, such as the prophet Ezekiel, who is set as a **sign** to the house of Israel ([[Ezekiel 12:6]], [[Ezekiel 24:24]]), and the high priest Joshua and his companions, who are called "men **wondered at**" [[Zechariah 3:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of divine signs and actions:
* `{{H226}}` **ʼôwth** (mark, miracle, sign, token): This word is very frequently paired with `{{H4159}}`, creating the common phrase "signs and wonders." This combination emphasizes the dual purpose of these events as both miraculous displays and meaningful tokens pointing to God's power and intent ([[Deuteronomy 6:22]], [[Psalms 135:9]]).
* `{{H4531}}` **maççâh** (temptation, trial): This term is linked to the **wonders** of the Exodus, framing them as "great **temptations**" or trials that Israel witnessed God bring upon Egypt ([[Deuteronomy 7:19]], [[Deuteronomy 29:3]]). This highlights that such wonders served as a period of testing.
* `{{H4941}}` **mishpâṭ** (judgment, ordinance, justice): God's **wonders** are connected to His **judgments**, showing that these miraculous acts are expressions of divine justice and His sovereign decrees ([[Psalms 105:5]], [[1 Chronicles 16:12]]).
* `{{H6381}}` **pâlâʼ** (marvellous, wonderful, accomplish): Used to describe God's "marvellous works," this term appears alongside **wonders** in calls to remember God's powerful deeds, reinforcing the extraordinary and supernatural character of these events ([[Psalms 105:5]], [[1 Chronicles 16:12]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4159}}` is significant, demonstrating how God communicates His power and purpose.
* **Proof of Divine Power:** The primary function of a **wonder** is to serve as undeniable proof of God's power, particularly in His deliverance of Israel from Egypt. These events are recalled as foundational evidence of His ability to act for His people ([[Jeremiah 32:21]], [[Deuteronomy 26:8]]).
* **Prophetic Authentication:** A **wonder** or **sign** validates a divine message or messenger. Whether it is a false prophet offering a sign to lead people astray [[Deuteronomy 13:1-2]] or God giving a sign to Hezekiah [[2 Chronicles 32:24]], the **wonder** acts as a credential.
* **Living Omens:** The term's application extends to people who embody a divine message. Prophets and priests can become a living **wonder**, with their lives and actions serving as a symbolic communication from God to His people ([[Isaiah 8:18]], [[Zechariah 3:8]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4159}}` is a term that encompasses more than just a miracle. It signifies a conspicuous token, a powerful omen, or a remarkable event designed to be witnessed. Whether through the mighty acts of the Exodus, a confirming prophetic sign, or a person who serves as a living symbol, a **môwphêth** is a clear and powerful demonstration of God's intervention and communication in the world.
TRV