a primitive root; to dash asunder; by implication, to crush, smash or violently plunge; figuratively, to subdue or destroy; dip, pierce (through), smite (through), strike through, wound.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mâchats**, represented by `{{H4272}}`, is a primitive root used to describe a violent and decisive action. It is defined as to **dash asunder, crush, smash, or violently plunge**, and is figuratively used to mean **subdue or destroy**. Other renderings include to **dip, pierce (through), smite (through), strike through, and wound**. It appears **14 times** across **14 unique verses** in the Bible, often in contexts of divine judgment or warfare.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H4272}}` is consistently used to convey a severe and shattering blow, often delivered by God against His enemies. In Deuteronomy, God Himself declares His absolute sovereignty with the words, "I **wound**, and I heal" [[Deuteronomy 32:39]]. This theme of divine power is echoed in the Psalms, where the Lord is depicted as one who will "**strike** through kings in the day of his wrath" [[Psalms 110:5]] and "**wound** the heads over many countries" [[Psalms 110:6]]. The term is also used to describe a literal, physical act of violence, as when Jael **pierced** and struck through the temples of Sisera [[Judges 5:26]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to frame the meaning of `{{H4272}}` by highlighting similar, contrasting, or resulting actions:
* `{{H1986}}` **hâlam** (to strike down; by implication, to hammer, stamp, conquer, disband): This word describes a similar act of striking and is used in conjunction with `{{H4272}}` in the account of Jael smiting Sisera [[Judges 5:26]].
* `{{H7495}}` **râphâʼ** (to mend (by stitching), i.e. (figuratively) to cure; heal): This term functions as a direct contrast, often paired with `{{H4272}}` to illustrate God's complete authority over both injury and restoration ([[Job 5:18]], [[Deuteronomy 32:39]]).
* `{{H3615}}` **kâlâh** (to end, whether intransitive (to cease, be finished, perish) or transitived (to complete, prepare, consume)): This word describes the ultimate outcome of being wounded by `{{H4272}}`, signifying complete consumption and destruction [[2 Samuel 22:39]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4272}}` is significant, primarily illustrating God's power and justice.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The word is used to establish God's ultimate authority. He declares that He alone has the power to **wound** and to heal, and that none can deliver from His hand, positioning these acts as proof of His unique divinity [[Deuteronomy 32:39]].
* **Judgment on Enemies:** `{{H4272}}` is a key term in passages describing divine retribution. God **wounds** the head of His enemies [[Psalms 68:21]], and prophetic promises describe a future ruler from Israel who will **smite** the corners of Moab [[Numbers 24:17]].
* **Salvation through Destruction:** The act of wounding the wicked is portrayed as a means of deliverance for God's people. This is stated explicitly in Habakkuk, where God **woundedst** the head of the house of the wicked as part of His work of salvation [[Habakkuk 3:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4272}}` is more than a simple term for injury. It conveys a sense of being utterly crushed, pierced, or destroyed. Its usage in Scripture underscores the themes of God's absolute power, His righteous judgment against evil, and His ability to deliver His people by decisively subduing their adversaries. The word serves as a stark reminder of the finality and force of divine action.
TRV