### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mamçâk**, represented by `{{H4469}}`, is defined as a **mixture**, specifically wine mixed with water or spices, and can be translated as **drink-offering** or **mixed wine**. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses. The term consistently points to a specially prepared drink associated with either worldly indulgence or idolatrous worship.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical appearances, `{{H4469}}` is cast in a negative light. In Proverbs, it is the object of desire for those who linger too long with alcohol, describing them as people "that go to **seek**{H2713} **mixed wine**{H4469}" [[Proverbs 23:30]]. In Isaiah, the term is used in a direct condemnation of apostasy, where the people are accused of forsaking God to worship false deities. They "prepare a table" and "**furnish**{H4390} the **drink offering**{H4469}" as part of their idolatrous rites [[Isaiah 65:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illuminate the context of `{{H4469}}`:
* `{{H3196}}` **yayin** (wine): This is the general term for wine, upon which the special **mixed wine**{H4469} is based. The Proverb warns against tarrying long at the **wine**{H3196} in the same verse that mentions seeking the mixture [[Proverbs 23:30]].
* `{{H5800}}` **ʻâzab** (forsake): This act of rebellion is the precursor to the idolatrous use of `{{H4469}}`. The offering is made by those "that **forsake**{H5800} the LORD" [[Isaiah 65:11]].
* `{{H6186}}` **ʻârak** (prepare): This word denotes the deliberate arrangement of a setting for the idolatrous drink offering, as those who turn from God "**prepare**{H6186} a table" for their idols [[Isaiah 65:11]].
* `{{H2713}}` **châqar** (seek out): The pursuit of **mixed wine**{H4469} is not passive but an active search. The term implies an intimate examination, showing a focused effort to find this specific indulgence [[Proverbs 23:30]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4469}}` is centered on its role as a symbol of misplaced devotion and worldly desire.
* **An Instrument of Idolatry:** The **drink offering**{H4469} is explicitly part of a ritual for false gods, performed by those who **forsake**{H5800} the Lord and **forget**{H7913} his holy mountain [[Isaiah 65:11]]. It represents a tangible act of turning away from true worship.
* **A Focus of Misdirected Seeking:** The desire for **mixed wine**{H4469} involves an active and deliberate search [[Proverbs 23:30]]. The verb **to seek**{H2713} is elsewhere used for God searching hearts or for kings searching out a matter, suggesting that the pursuit of this drink is a misappropriation of deep-seated human longing.
* **A Symbol of Enhanced Indulgence:** As a "mixture," `{{H4469}}` signifies something more than simple **wine**{H3196}. It represents a curated, enhanced pleasure that tempts people to "tarry long" and go beyond ordinary limits, leading them away from wisdom [[Proverbs 23:30]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4469}}` **mamçâk** is a term loaded with negative connotations. Far from being a neutral reference to a beverage, it functions in Scripture as a symbol for two specific spiritual dangers: the intentional pursuit of excessive worldly pleasure and the deliberate act of idolatry. Its use in both Proverbs and Isaiah paints a picture of a conscious choice to turn away from God's ways, either by seeking intoxicating indulgence or by furnishing offerings to false deities.
TRV