### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term מוֹרָט (môwrâṭ), Strong's number `{{H4178}}`, is a passive participle derived from the root יָרַט (yāraṭ, `{{H3423}}`). This root carries a dual semantic range, which is reflected in its derivative. Primarily, יָרָט signifies "to be smooth," "to be peeled," or "to be stripped bare." From this physical sense, מוֹרָט can denote something that has been "peeled," "polished," or "made smooth." This often implies a state of readiness or refinement, as something stripped of its rough exterior.
Secondly, the root יָרָט can convey a figurative meaning of "to be independent" or "to be obstinate." This suggests a state of being unyielding, self-reliant to the point of stubbornness, or resistant to external influence. When applied to מוֹרָט, this nuance would describe something that is "obstinate" or "unyielding" in its nature or purpose. The precise meaning in any given context depends heavily on the surrounding words and the broader theological message.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term מוֹרָט (môwrâṭ, `{{H4178}}`) appears only once in the entire Hebrew Bible, specifically in [[Ezekiel 21:15]] (MT 21:10). The verse reads: "It is for the slaughter, it is polished (מוֹרָט), it is sharpened." (The context is a prophetic oracle concerning the "sword of the Lord" that is poised to bring judgment upon the land of Israel and Ammon).
In this singular occurrence, the primary semantic pole of "polished" or "made smooth" is clearly dominant. The sword of the Lord is not dull or neglected; it is described as מוֹרָט, indicating that it has been meticulously prepared, sharpened, and given a terrifying gleam. This imagery emphasizes its readiness and efficacy as an instrument of divine judgment. The polishing signifies its deadly perfection and the certainty of its purpose. While the "obstinate" sense is less direct, one could infer a subtle layer of meaning: the sword, once polished and prepared by God, becomes unyielding and determined in its execution of divine wrath, reflecting the unalterable nature of God's decree. However, the immediate and most striking meaning is its physical state of being perfectly prepared.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word is the verbal root יָרַט (yāraṭ, `{{H3423}}`), from which מוֹרָט is derived. This root also appears in contexts that imply smoothness or stripping. Other related concepts include:
* **Preparation for Judgment:** Words describing the sharpening or readiness of weapons (e.g., שָׁנַן - to sharpen, חֶרֶב - sword).
* **Refinement and Purity:** Terms associated with the removal of impurities or the creation of something smooth and clean (e.g., צָרַף - to refine, בָּרַר - to purify).
* **Stubbornness and Rebellion:** Words denoting an unyielding spirit or resistance to God's will (e.g., קָשֶׁה עֹרֶף - stiff-necked, סָרַר - to be rebellious). While not the primary sense of מוֹרָט in Ezekiel, the underlying root's potential for this meaning is noteworthy.
The imagery of the "polished sword" resonates with other biblical depictions of God's instruments of judgment, which are always portrayed as fully prepared and capable of fulfilling their divine mandate.
### Theological Significance
The singular appearance of מוֹרָט in [[Ezekiel 21:15]] carries profound theological weight. Describing the "sword of the Lord" as מוֹרָט signifies the absolute preparedness and inevitability of divine judgment. This is not a hesitant or ill-equipped act; rather, God's instrument of wrath is depicted as perfectly honed, gleaming, and ready for its grim task. It underscores:
* **Divine Sovereignty and Intent:** God is in complete control, and His judgments are not arbitrary or unplanned. The "polished" nature of the sword speaks to a deliberate and purposeful execution of His will.
* **Certainty of Judgment:** The imagery conveys that judgment is not merely a threat but a prepared reality. When God's sword is מוֹרָט, it means the time for action has arrived, and there is no escaping its reach.
* **God's Holiness and Justice:** The sword's perfection reflects the perfect justice of God. It is a clean, precise instrument, not a blunt tool, suggesting that divine retribution is exact and righteous.
The "polished sword" serves as a stark warning to those who have rebelled against God, emphasizing that His patience has limits and His instruments of justice are always ready.
### Summary
The Hebrew word מוֹרָט (môwrâṭ, `{{H4178}}`) is a rare term, appearing only once in the Old Testament. Derived from the root יָרָט (`{{H3423}}`), it encapsulates two primary semantic fields: "peeled/polished/smooth" and "obstinate/independent." In its sole biblical occurrence in [[Ezekiel 21:15]], מוֹרָט describes the "sword of the Lord" as "polished," emphasizing its terrifying readiness and perfection as an instrument of divine judgment. This single usage powerfully conveys the certainty, deliberateness, and absolute preparedness of God's justice, underscoring that when God determines to act, His instruments are perfectly honed for the execution of His righteous will.
TRV