or מִישֹׁר; from יָשַׁר; a level, i.e. a plain (often used (with the article prefix) as a proper name of certain districts); figuratively, concord; also straightness, i.e. (figuratively) justice (sometimes adverbially, justly); equity, even place, plain, right(-eously), (made) straight, uprightness.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term מִישׁוֹר (transliterated *mîyshôwr*, Strong's `{{H4334}}`) derives from the root יָשַׁר (*yashar*, `{{H3474}}`), meaning "to be straight, right, or upright." This etymological connection is fundamental to understanding its broad semantic range. Primarily, *mîyshôwr* denotes a physical "level place," "plain," or "even ground." This literal sense refers to flat, open terrain, often in contrast to mountainous or rugged landscapes.
Beyond its geographical meaning, *mîyshôwr* extends metaphorically to describe moral and ethical qualities. In this figurative sense, it signifies "straightness" in conduct, leading to concepts such as "justice," "equity," "uprightness," and "righteousness." The idea is that just actions and righteous character are "straight" or "level," free from the crookedness of deceit or partiality. It can also imply "concord" or harmony, suggesting a smooth, even relationship between parties. Occasionally, it functions adverbially, meaning "justly" or "righteously." When used with the definite article, "the *mîyshôwr*," it often refers to specific geographical regions, particularly the plateau east of the Jordan River.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term *mîyshôwr* appears approximately 20 times in the Old Testament, showcasing both its literal and figurative applications.
In its geographical sense, *mîyshôwr* frequently describes the flatlands and plateaus, especially in Transjordan. For instance, [[Deuteronomy 3:10]] and [[Deuteronomy 4:43]] refer to cities "in the plain" (בַּמִּישׁוֹר), specifying the plateau of Reuben and Gad. Similarly, [[Joshua 13:9]] and [[Joshua 13:17]] mention "all the plain" (וְכָל הַמִּישׁוֹר) as part of the inheritance of the tribes. [[1 Kings 20:23]] and [[1 Kings 20:25]] speak of fighting "in the plain" (בַּמִּישׁוֹר), implying a suitable battleground. This usage highlights the strategic and agricultural importance of such level areas.
More profoundly, *mîyshôwr* is employed to describe moral and divine attributes. In the Psalms, it frequently characterizes God's justice and the path of the righteous. [[Psalm 26:12]] declares, "My foot stands on level ground (בְּמִישׁוֹר); in the great assembly I will bless the LORD." Here, *mîyshôwr* signifies a firm, stable, and morally upright stance. [[Psalm 27:11]] pleads, "Teach me your way, O LORD, and lead me on a level path (בְּאֹרַח מִישׁוֹר)," equating a "level path" with a righteous and clear way of life. Most strikingly, [[Psalm 45:6]] (or 45:7 in some translations) states, "A scepter of uprightness (שֵׁבֶט מִישׁוֹר) is the scepter of your kingdom," attributing perfect justice and equity to God's rule. Similarly, [[Psalm 67:4]] (or 67:5) proclaims that God "judges the peoples with equity (בְּמִישׁוֹר)."
Prophetic literature also utilizes *mîyshôwr* with profound implications. [[Isaiah 26:7]] states, "The path of the righteous is level (מֵישָׁרִים); you, O Upright One, make the way of the righteous straight." This verse beautifully links God's character as "Upright" with His provision of a straight path for His people. Perhaps most famously, [[Isaiah 40:4]] declares, "Every valley shall be lifted up, and every mountain and hill be made low; the uneven ground shall become level (לְמִישׁוֹר), and the rough places a plain." This prophecy, quoted in the New Testament concerning John the Baptist preparing the way for the Messiah, uses *mîyshôwr* to symbolize the removal of obstacles and the establishment of a clear, unobstructed path for divine revelation and salvation.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary linguistic kin to *mîyshôwr* is its root, `{{H3474}}` יָשַׁר (*yashar*), "to be straight, right, or upright." From this root also stem several closely related terms that reinforce the semantic field of straightness and rectitude:
* `{{H3477}}` יָשָׁר (*yashar*): An adjective meaning "straight, right, upright, just, fitting." It often describes God's ways or human conduct.
* `{{H3476}}` יֹשֶׁר (*yosher*): A noun meaning "straightness, uprightness, rectitude." It refers to the quality of being right or just.
* `{{H3479}}` מֵישָׁרִים (*meysharim*): A plural noun, often used adverbially, meaning "equity, uprightness, justly." This term is very close in meaning and usage to *mîyshôwr* in its ethical sense, as seen in [[Isaiah 26:7]].
Conceptually, *mîyshôwr* aligns with other significant biblical themes:
* **Justice and Righteousness:** Terms like צֶדֶק (*tsedeq*, `{{H6664}}`) and צְדָקָה (*tsedaqah*, `{{H6666}}`), meaning "justice" and "righteousness," often appear in contexts where *mîyshôwr* would be applicable, particularly concerning God's character and the requirements for human behavior.
* **Judgment:** מִשְׁפָּט (*mishpat*, `{{H4941}}`), "judgment" or "justice," frequently describes the administration of equity, a core aspect of *mîyshôwr*.
* **Truth:** אֱמֶת (*emeth*, `{{H571}}`), "truth" or "faithfulness," complements *mîyshôwr* as both contribute to a reliable and upright foundation.
The common thread among these related words and concepts is the idea of conformity to a standard, whether it be a physical straight line or a moral code established by God.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of *mîyshôwr* is profound, particularly in its metaphorical applications. It speaks to fundamental aspects of God's character, His governance, and the expected conduct of His people.
1. **God's Inherent Character:** *Mîyshôwr* describes the very nature of God. He is inherently "straight" and "upright," meaning His actions, judgments, and decrees are always just, equitable, and without deviation. [[Psalm 45:6]] portrays His kingdom as ruled by a "scepter of uprightness," emphasizing that justice is the foundation of His reign. This assures believers of God's unwavering fairness and integrity.
2. **Divine Governance and Judgment:** God's rule over the nations and individuals is characterized by *mîyshôwr*. He "judges the peoples with equity" ([[Psalm 67:4]]), ensuring that His judgments are not arbitrary but perfectly balanced and just. This provides comfort and hope to the oppressed, knowing that ultimate justice resides with the sovereign Lord.
3. **The Path of Righteousness:** For humanity, *mîyshôwr* represents the ideal path of life. Believers are called to walk in "level ground" ([[Psalm 26:12]]), signifying a life lived in integrity, honesty, and conformity to God's commands. This "level path" is free from the pitfalls of sin and deceit, leading to stability and blessing. The prayer for God to "lead me on a level path" ([[Psalm 27:11]]) reflects a desire for divine guidance in righteous living.
4. **Messianic Preparation:** The prophetic use of *mîyshôwr* in [[Isaiah 40:4]] takes on eschatological significance. The leveling of the land symbolizes the removal of all obstacles, both physical and spiritual, that hinder the coming of the Lord and the establishment of His kingdom. This imagery was applied to John the Baptist preparing the way for Jesus, signifying that through Christ, the crooked paths of humanity are made straight, and the way to God is made clear.
### Summary
The Hebrew word מִישׁוֹר (*mîyshôwr*, `{{H4334}}`) is a rich term derived from the root "to be straight." Its semantic range encompasses both a literal "level place" or "plain" and a profound metaphorical meaning of "justice," "equity," and "uprightness." Geographically, it often denotes the flatlands east of the Jordan. Theologically, *mîyshôwr* is crucial for understanding God's character as perfectly just and equitable, His righteous governance over creation, and the call for humanity to walk in integrity and uprightness. It culminates in the prophetic vision of a world made "level" for the advent of God's saving presence, signifying the removal of all barriers to divine revelation and salvation. Thus, *mîyshôwr* beautifully bridges the physical landscape with the moral and spiritual landscape of God's kingdom.
TRV