### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **machluy**, represented by `{{H4251}}`, is a specific term for **disease**. Derived from a root word meaning to be diseased, its biblical usage is exceptionally rare. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**, making its single context crucial for understanding its weight and application.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H4251}}` is in [[2 Chronicles 24:25]], which describes the aftermath of an attack on a king. The text states that his enemies "left him in great **diseases**," highlighting a state of extreme physical suffering and weakness. This condition immediately precedes his assassination by his own servants, indicating that the **diseases** rendered him vulnerable and helpless against the conspiracy that ended his life.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several words found within its only scriptural context illuminate the severity of the situation:
* `{{H7227}}` **rab** (abundant): This word modifies **diseases** in [[2 Chronicles 24:25]], translating as "great." It signifies an abundance or multitude, emphasizing that the affliction was not minor but overwhelming. This term is also used to describe God's abundant goodness [[Exodus 34:6]].
* `{{H2026}}` **hârag** (slay): Following the mention of the diseases, the verse states that the servants "slew him." This word means to smite with deadly intent, connecting the state of disease directly to a violent death [[Genesis 4:8]].
* `{{H4191}}` **mûwth** (die): The verse concludes with the simple statement, "and he died." This primitive root word for death provides the final outcome, sealing the narrative that begins with the affliction of `{{H4251}}`. It is famously used to state the consequence of disobedience [[Genesis 2:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H4251}}` is tied entirely to its singular, dramatic context. It illustrates a moment of profound judgment and consequence.
* **A Precursor to Judgment:** The "great **diseases**" are not the final judgment but a condition that makes the final judgment possible. The physical affliction serves as the precursor to the king being slain for his sins [[2 Chronicles 24:25]].
* **State of Helplessness:** The word portrays a state of utter vulnerability. Being left in these **diseases** stripped away power and protection, leaving the individual exposed to his enemies.
* **Physical Consequence:** It demonstrates a biblical theme where severe physical ailment is directly linked to the consequences of a person's actions, in this case, the shedding of "the blood of the sons of Jehoiada the priest" [[2 Chronicles 24:25]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4251}}` is a highly specific and impactful word for **disease**, despite appearing only once. Its sole use in scripture powerfully links physical affliction with a state of vulnerability that precedes a final, fatal judgment. The term's meaning is amplified by the surrounding narrative of conspiracy and death, making it a stark example of how disease is portrayed as part of a person's downfall in the biblical text [[2 Chronicles 24:25]].
TRV