### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **makmâr**, represented by `{{H4364}}`, refers to a **net**. Derived from a root meaning "blackening by heat," it specifically denotes a hunter's net, likely called such because it was dark for concealment. This term is rare, appearing only **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical appearances, `{{H4364}}` is used metaphorically to depict entrapment. In Isaiah, the sons of Jerusalem have fainted and **lie** `{{H7901}}` helpless "as a **wild bull** `{{H8377}}` in a **net** `{{H4364}}`," being **full** `{{H4392}}` of the **fury** `{{H2534}}` and **rebuke** `{{H1606}}` of the **LORD** `{{H3068}}` [[Isaiah 51:20]]. In Psalms, the word illustrates retributive justice, with the psalmist praying, "Let the **wicked** `{{H7563}}` **fall** `{{H5307}}` into their own **nets** `{{H4364}}`" [[Psalms 141:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context of being caught in a net:
* `{{H8377}}` **tᵉʼôw** (wild bull): This term is used to create the powerful simile of a strong creature rendered helpless in a **net** `{{H4364}}` [[Isaiah 51:20]].
* `{{H7563}}` **râshâʻ** (wicked): The **net** is presented as a trap that the **wicked** set but fall into themselves, highlighting a theme of justice [[Psalms 141:10]].
* `{{H5307}}` **nâphal** (to fall): This word describes the action of being ensnared, as the **wicked** are destined to **fall** into their own traps [[Psalms 141:10]].
* `{{H1606}}` **gᵉʻârâh** (rebuke): The state of being trapped in the **net** is a direct result of divine judgment, specifically the **rebuke** of **God** `{{H430}}` [[Isaiah 51:20]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4364}}` is centered on its use as a powerful metaphor for judgment and consequence.
* **Helpless Entrapment:** The image of a **wild bull** `{{H8377}}` caught in a **net** `{{H4364}}` vividly portrays a state of utter helplessness and exhaustion, brought about by the **fury** `{{H2534}}` of the **LORD** `{{H3068}}` [[Isaiah 51:20]].
* **Retributive Justice:** In Psalms, the **net** symbolizes the self-destructive nature of evil. The prayer is that the **wicked** `{{H7563}}` will be caught in the very traps they prepared for others [[Psalms 141:10]].
* **Instrument of Divine Judgment:** The **net** functions as a symbol of divine discipline. The entrapment of the sons of Jerusalem is not a random misfortune but is directly linked to the **rebuke** `{{H1606}}` of **God** `{{H430}}`, showing that this condition is a consequence of His judgment [[Isaiah 51:20]].
### Summary
In summary, **makmâr** `{{H4364}}` is more than just a hunter's tool. In Scripture, this **net** becomes a potent symbol of inescapable situations. It illustrates both the helplessness of those under divine **rebuke** `{{H1606}}` and the principle of retributive justice, where the **wicked** `{{H7563}}` are ensnared by their own schemes. Though used only twice, its imagery powerfully conveys themes of judgment and consequence.
TRV