### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H4352}}` (Mâkîy) is a proper noun, specifically the name of an individual. Its base definition indicates a derivation from the root מוּךְ (mûk), which corresponds to `{{H4134}}`. This root carries the primary meaning of "to be low," "to be abased," "to be brought low," "to be impoverished," or "to pine away." Therefore, the name "Maki" inherently conveys a sense of "pining" or "one who is low/impoverished." As a proper noun, its semantic range is limited to identifying a specific person, but its etymological root offers a deeper layer of meaning, suggesting a state of humility, need, or perhaps even a longing.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name `{{H4352}}` (Mâkîy) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in the book of Numbers.
* **[[Numbers 13:15]]**: "Of the tribe of Gad, Geuel the son of Maki."
This sole occurrence identifies Maki as the father of Geuel, who was chosen as the representative from the tribe of Gad to spy out the land of Canaan. The context is the pivotal moment when Moses, at the Lord's command, sends twelve leaders—one from each ancestral tribe—to reconnoiter the Promised Land. Maki himself is not depicted as an active participant in the narrative; his significance is solely as the patriarch of one of these chosen spies. This brief mention underscores the meticulous genealogical record-keeping characteristic of the Pentateuch, even for individuals whose direct actions are not detailed. It places Maki within the foundational lineage of the Israelite nation during its formative wilderness journey.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word to `{{H4352}}` is its proposed root, מוּךְ (mûk), `{{H4134}}`. This verb is used in various contexts to describe a state of being brought low, impoverished, or in need. For example:
* In the Mosaic Law concerning redemption of land or persons, `{{H4134}}` describes someone who has "become poor" or "fallen into poverty" ([[Leviticus 25:25]], [[Leviticus 25:35]], [[Leviticus 25:47]]).
* In a more figurative sense, it can describe being "brought low" by iniquity or distress ([[Psalm 106:43]]).
The conceptual links therefore extend to themes of humility, dependence, weakness, and the human condition of need. While Maki is a proper name, the underlying etymology subtly invites reflection on human vulnerability and the constant reliance upon divine provision, particularly pertinent during the challenging wilderness sojourn of Israel.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H4352}}` (Mâkîy) is subtle, given its single, non-active occurrence as a proper noun. However, its etymological meaning—"pining" or "low"—can be considered in light of the broader narrative of the wilderness generation:
1. **Human Frailty and Dependence**: The name "Maki" subtly points to the inherent human condition of weakness and dependence. Even those connected to significant leadership roles (as the father of a tribal spy) are subject to the limitations of human nature. This contrasts with God's omnipotence and self-sufficiency.
2. **Foreshadowing of Israel's Spiritual State**: The name could be seen as a poignant, even prophetic, descriptor for the spiritual state of the generation in the wilderness. Despite being on the cusp of the Promised Land, they largely succumbed to fear, doubt, and rebellion, leading to forty years of "pining away" and dying in the wilderness, rather than entering the land. The name "Pining" could thus subtly foreshadow the spiritual decline and lack of faith that characterized many of the spies and the people they represented.
3. **God's Meticulous Record-Keeping**: The inclusion of such a specific name, even for a seemingly minor figure in the grand narrative, underscores God's comprehensive knowledge and meticulous attention to every individual within His redemptive plan. It signifies that no person or detail is insignificant in the divine economy.
### Summary
`{{H4352}}` (Mâkîy) is a unique proper noun in the Hebrew Bible, meaning "pining" or "one who is low," derived from the root מוּךְ `{{H4134}}`. It appears only once, in [[Numbers 13:15]], identifying Maki as the father of Geuel, the spy from the tribe of Gad. While Maki himself is not an active participant in the narrative, his name's etymology subtly highlights themes of human vulnerability, dependence, and the potential for spiritual "pining" or weakness, which tragically characterized the wilderness generation. Its inclusion in the biblical record also serves as a testament to God's detailed knowledge and oversight of all individuals within His sovereign plan.
TRV