### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **môwtsâʼâh**, represented by `{{H4163}}`, is a term with distinct and contrasting meanings related to origin and exit. It appears only **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Based on its usage, it can refer to a "family descent" or "going forth," but also to a "sewer" or **draught house**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two appearances of `{{H4163}}` present a stark contrast. In [[2 Kings 10:27]], the house of the false god Baal is torn down and made into a **draught house**, a place of filth and disposal, signifying its ultimate desecration. Conversely, in the messianic prophecy of [[Micah 5:2]], the term describes the eternal origins of the future ruler from Bethlehem, "whose **goings forth** have been from of old, from everlasting."
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide deeper context for the meanings of `{{H4163}}`:
* `{{H3318}}` **yâtsâʼ** (to go (causatively, bring) out): As the primitive root, this word establishes the core concept of exiting or proceeding from a source. It is used for a person coming forth from the womb [[Jeremiah 1:5]] and for the word of God that **goeth forth** from His mouth [[Isaiah 55:11]].
* `{{H4910}}` **mâshal** (to rule): This word is directly linked to `{{H4163}}` in [[Micah 5:2]], which describes one who is "to be **ruler** in Israel" whose goings forth are from eternity. It signifies dominion and power, as when God **rulest** the raging of the sea [[Psalms 89:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4163}}` comes from its dramatically different applications, highlighting concepts of ultimate origins and ultimate ends.
* **Eternal Origin:** In [[Micah 5:2]], the word points to the divine and everlasting nature of the Messiah. His "goings forth" are not just a beginning but an eternal procession, establishing his pre-existence before his birth in Bethlehem.
* **Profane End:** In [[2 Kings 10:27]], its use as "draught house" signifies absolute judgment and contempt. A place of false worship is turned into its functional opposite—not a source of life, but a destination for waste, demonstrating the complete rejection of idolatry.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4163}}` is a rare but powerful word whose meaning is defined entirely by its context. It demonstrates a profound biblical theme through its dual usage: it can describe the highest, eternal "goings forth" of God's chosen ruler, or the lowest, most defiled end of a **draught house** reserved for the profane. This contrast shows how a single Hebrew term can encompass both the sacred origin of a king and the desecrated fate of an idol.
TRV