### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mamrôr**, represented by `{{H4472}}`, is a term for **bitterness**. Derived from a root meaning bitterness, it is used figuratively to describe calamity. It appears only **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the Bible, making its sole usage particularly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{H4472}}` is found in the book of Job, where Job expresses the depth of his suffering. In his lament, he states that God "will not suffer me to take my breath, but filleth me with **bitterness**" [[Job 9:18]]. Here, the word conveys a suffering that is not merely present but is all-consuming, a calamity that has completely saturated his being, leaving no room for even a moment of relief.
### Related Words & Concepts
The words used alongside `{{H4472}}` in its only scriptural context illuminate its meaning:
* `{{H5414}}` **nâthan** (to give, suffer, put): In [[Job 9:18]], this word, translated as "suffer" in the sense of "allow," establishes that Job's inability to find relief is divinely permitted. It is also used when God promises to **give** his people a new heart and spirit [[Ezekiel 36:26]].
* `{{H7725}}` **shûwb** (to turn back, return, take): Job uses this word to describe being unable to "take" his breath, a returning action that is denied to him. This contrasts with its common usage of people being called to **turn** back to God [[2 Chronicles 7:14]].
* `{{H7307}}` **rûwach** (breath, spirit): This is what Job is denied. Representing life and vitality, its absence, coupled with the presence of bitterness, paints a picture of living death. This same word is used for the **Spirit** of God that brings life and power [[Isaiah 61:1]].
* `{{H7646}}` **sâbaʻ** (to sate, i.e. fill to satisfaction): This word dramatically intensifies the meaning of bitterness. Job is not just touched by calamity; he is "filled" with it to the point of saturation. This is a stark contrast to how God **satisfies** the longing soul with goodness [[Psalms 107:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4472}}` is concentrated in its singular, powerful use.
* **The Nature of Calamity:** The term defines suffering not as a passing trial but as an overwhelming, figurative substance. Being filled with **bitterness** is to be consumed by calamity itself.
* **A Portrait of Despair:** Paired with the denial of breath `{{H7307}}`, `{{H4472}}` captures a state of profound despair where life-giving relief is replaced entirely by life-crushing bitterness.
* **The Problem of Suffering:** Its use in [[Job 9:18]] frames the central question of the book: the experience of a righteous person being "filled" with calamity by a God who elsewhere is shown to "satisfy" his people with good things [[Psalms 103:5]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4472}}` is a rare but potent word. Its single occurrence in [[Job 9:18]] provides a critical definition for a specific type of suffering: a deep, consuming calamity. Framed by words of divine action, denied breath, and being filled to capacity, **mamrôr** encapsulates the profound bitterness at the heart of Job's struggle and gives voice to an experience of overwhelming despair.
TRV