### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **maltâʻâh**, represented by `{{H4459}}`, translates as **a grinder, i.e. back tooth; great tooth**. It is a very rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its singular appearance is used to create a powerful and specific image of disarming a formidable enemy.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H4459}}` is found in a prayer within [[Psalms 58:6]]. In this verse, the psalmist calls upon God to intervene against the wicked, who are depicted as dangerous predators. The plea is structured with escalating intensity: first asking God `{{H430}}` to "Break their teeth" `{{H8127}}`, and then specifying further, "break out the **great teeth** of the young lions" `{{H3715}}`. This use of `{{H4459}}` points to the very source of the enemy's power to destroy, asking the LORD `{{H3068}}` to render them completely harmless.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context in [[Psalms 58:6]] help clarify its meaning and impact:
* `{{H8127}}` **shên** (a tooth): This general term for "tooth" is used in the first part of the verse, providing the broader context for the more specific and powerful term **maltâʻâh**.
* `{{H3715}}` **kᵉphîyr** (a young lion): This identifies the metaphorical owners of the "great teeth." By describing the wicked as young lions, the psalmist emphasizes their strength, ferocity, and predatory nature.
* `{{H5422}}` **nâthats** (to tear down): This is the specific action the psalmist asks God to perform on the "great teeth." The definition "to tear down" conveys the violent and complete neutralization of the enemy's threat.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H4459}}` is concentrated in its single, potent use:
* **Neutralizing Evil:** The request to break the "great teeth" is a graphic metaphor for rendering evil powerless. It is a plea for God to remove the ability of the wicked to inflict harm and carry out their destructive intentions [[Psalms 58:6]].
* **An Appeal for Divine Justice:** The word appears in a direct appeal to God for justice. It highlights the psalmist's belief that God `{{H430}}` is the ultimate authority who can and will intervene to disarm the enemies of the righteous.
* **Imagery of Strength:** By specifying the "great teeth" of the "young lions" `{{H3715}}`, the psalmist acknowledges the formidable strength of his adversaries while simultaneously expressing complete confidence in the greater power of the LORD `{{H3068}}` to shatter it.
### Summary
In summary, while **maltâʻâh** `{{H4459}}` is an exceptionally rare word, its singular occurrence in Scripture is highly effective. Used in [[Psalms 58:6]], it serves as a powerful and specific descriptor in a plea for divine justice. The term transforms a general request to break teeth into a vivid image of shattering the core strength of a vicious enemy, illustrating how a unique word can carry significant metaphorical weight in biblical prayer and poetry.
TRV