### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mâchâʼ**, represented by `{{H4222}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to rub or strike the hands together (in exultation); clap**. It is a rare term, appearing only **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible, but its usage reveals a powerful physical expression of intense emotion.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The context of `{{H4222}}` shows two dramatically different meanings. In Isaiah, it is used figuratively to describe creation's response to God's redemptive work, where "all the trees of the field shall **clap** their hands" [[Isaiah 55:12]]. Similarly, in the Psalms, nature is personified in praise as the "floods **clap** their hands" [[Psalms 98:8]]. In stark contrast, Ezekiel uses the term to describe a human act of contempt and malicious joy against Israel, with God declaring, "Because thou hast **clapped** thine hands, and stamped with the feet, and rejoiced in heart with all thy despite" [[Ezekiel 25:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the action and emotion associated with clapping:
* `{{H3709}}` **kaph**: This word for **the hollow hand or palm** is used in the contexts of joyful praise, where trees and floods clap their hands ([[Isaiah 55:12]], [[Psalms 98:8]]).
* `{{H3027}}` **yâd**: Defined as **a hand (the open one (indicating power, means, direction, etc.),**, this word for hand is used in the context of clapping with spiteful intent against Israel [[Ezekiel 25:6]].
* `{{H7440}}` **rinnâh**: Meaning a **shout (of joy or grief)**, this word is paired with clapping hands in Isaiah's depiction of cosmic joy [[Isaiah 55:12]].
* `{{H7554}}` **râqaʻ**: A primitive root meaning **to pound the earth (as a sign of passion)**, this action of stamping is directly linked with clapping hands as an expression of contempt [[Ezekiel 25:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4222}}` is found in its portrayal of a physical act that reveals the state of the heart.
* **Cosmic Praise:** In its positive sense, clapping is an act of universal exultation. When nature is depicted as clapping its hands, it signifies a creation-wide celebration and response to the joy and peace brought by God ([[Isaiah 55:12]], [[Psalms 98:8]]).
* **Malicious Glee:** The act of clapping is not inherently holy. In Ezekiel, it is an expression of human sin, a gloating over the affliction of God's people. It is combined with stamping the feet and rejoicing with "despite" [[Ezekiel 25:6]].
* **Indicator of Judgment:** The context in Ezekiel shows that when clapping is motivated by contempt for God's people, it incurs divine judgment. The act serves as evidence of a heart condition that stands opposed to God's purposes.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4222}}` is a specific and potent term. Though used only three times, it powerfully illustrates how the same physical action—striking the hands together—can signify two opposite spiritual realities. It can be an expression of pure, universal joy in response to God's glory, or it can be a sign of depraved, spiteful glee that provokes His judgment. The meaning is defined not by the action itself, but by the heart from which it originates.
TRV