### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mamtaq**, represented by `{{H4477}}`, denotes **something sweet**. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Its meaning is derived from a root word for sweetness and can be applied literally to taste or figuratively to describe something exceptionally pleasant or delightful.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two uses of `{{H4477}}` in scripture highlight its dual literal and figurative application. In a literal sense, it is part of a command for celebration, where the people are told to "eat the fat, and drink **the sweet**" on a holy day to the Lord [[Nehemiah 8:10]]. Figuratively, it is used as a term of endearment and high praise in the Song of Solomon, where the beloved is described with the words, "His mouth is **most sweet**" [[Song of Solomon 5:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help frame the context of sweetness and delight:
* `{{H398}}` **ʼâkal** (a primitive root; to eat (literally or figuratively)): This word is used in direct parallel with consuming what is sweet, as seen in the command to **eat** the fat and drink the sweet in [[Nehemiah 8:10]].
* `{{H8354}}` **shâthâh** (a primitive root; to imbibe (literally or figuratively)): Paired with eating, this word completes the act of feasting and celebration where the people are instructed to **drink** the sweet [[Nehemiah 8:10]].
* `{{H4261}}` **machmâd** (delightful; hence, a delight, i.e. object of affection or desire): This term appears alongside `{{H4477}}` to intensify the description of the beloved, stating he is altogether **lovely**, linking sweetness with what is desirable [[Song of Solomon 5:16]].
* `{{H2304}}` **chedvâh** (from חָדָה; rejoicing; gladness, joy): The consumption of "the sweet" in Nehemiah is explicitly linked to the experience of spiritual strength, as the verse concludes, "for the **joy** of the LORD is your strength" [[Nehemiah 8:10]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H4477}}` is found in its association with both divine celebration and intimate affection.
* **Sacred Celebration:** Consuming what is **sweet** is presented not just as a physical act but as part of a holy observance. It is tied directly to finding strength in the joy of the Lord, representing the goodness and provision enjoyed on a day set apart for God [[Nehemiah 8:10]].
* **Figurative Delight:** The word transcends literal taste to describe a person. In Song of Solomon, the beloved’s mouth being **most sweet** uses a sensory experience to express profound affection and the pleasantness of a person, equating them with something precious and delightful [[Song of Solomon 5:16]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4477}}` is a concise but potent term. Though used only twice, it effectively captures the essence of sweetness as both a physical blessing from God intended for joyful celebration and as a powerful metaphor for the deep delight one person can find in another. It demonstrates how a simple descriptor of taste can convey profound spiritual joy and personal affection.
TRV