### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mikmereth**, represented by `{{H4365}}`, refers to a (fisher's) **net** or **drag**. It appears only **3 times** in **3 unique verses**, making each occurrence significant. The term is used to describe a specific type of net, likely a dragnet, for capturing fish or, figuratively, people.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{H4365}}` is used in both literal and figurative contexts. In Isaiah, it describes the tools of fishermen who will languish under judgment, as those who **spread** **nets** upon the waters find their livelihood gone [[Isaiah 19:8]]. In Habakkuk, the term is used metaphorically to describe a conquering army that gathers up people in their **drag**, treating them like fish caught in a net [[Habakkuk 1:15]]. This metaphor is extended when the conquerors are depicted as worshiping their own power, sacrificing to their net and burning incense to their **drag** because it secures their wealth [[Habakkuk 1:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the context of fishing and capture:
* `{{H2764}}` **chêrem**: This word for **net** is used alongside `{{H4365}}` in Habakkuk, but also carries the meaning of a "doomed object" or "**curse**" [[Malachi 4:6]]. It can refer to things dedicated to destruction, such as the "**accursed thing**" in Jericho [[Joshua 6:18]].
* `{{H1771}}` **dayâg**: Meaning **a fisherman**, this word identifies the person who uses nets and hooks. They are seen mourning the loss of their trade in Isaiah's prophecy [[Isaiah 19:8]] and are used metaphorically when the LORD sends for many **fishers** to "fish" for the people of Israel [[Jeremiah 16:16]].
* `{{H2443}}` **chakkâh**: Meaning **a hook** or **angle**, this word denotes another primary tool for catching fish. It appears with `{{H4365}}` in both [[Habakkuk 1:15]] and [[Isaiah 19:8]], showing the various methods used in a capture.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H4365}}` is tied to its powerful imagery of capture and judgment.
* **Instrument of Divine Judgment:** In Habakkuk, the **drag** is a metaphor for the invading army used to execute God's judgment on nations, gathering them up as a fisherman catches his prey [[Habakkuk 1:15]].
* **Symbol of Idolatry:** The conquerors' success leads them to worship their own might, as they sacrifice to their **drag** [[Habakkuk 1:16]]. This illustrates the sin of idolizing human power and attributing success to one's own instruments rather than to God.
* **Marker of Economic Ruin:** The failure of those who spread **nets** is a sign of a divine curse upon Egypt, leading to the mourning and lamentation of the **fishers** [[Isaiah 19:8]]. The inability to use the **drag** effectively signifies complete societal collapse.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4365}}` **mikmereth** is a specific term for a **drag** net that carries significant metaphorical weight. While it has a literal application in the context of fishing, its scriptural usage is primarily symbolic. It functions as a powerful image for judgment, the arrogant idolatry of human strength, and the economic devastation that results from a divine curse.
TRV