### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mânaʻ**, represented by `{{H4513}}`, is a primitive root meaning to debar, deny, keep back, refrain, restrain, or withhold. It appears **30 times** across **29 unique verses** in the Bible. This term is used to describe the act of preventing something, whether it be a positive benefit or a negative injury, and is applied to both God and human beings.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H4513}}` is used in several key contexts. It often describes God's sovereign control over blessings and judgment. For example, as a consequence of sin, God declares that "the showers have been withholden" [[Jeremiah 3:3]], and through the prophet Amos, He states, "I have withholden the rain from you" [[Amos 4:7]]. Conversely, God's faithfulness to the righteous is shown in His promise that "no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly" [[Psalms 84:11]]. The term is also used for human actions, carrying a strong moral weight, as in the command, "Withhold not good from them to whom it is due" [[Proverbs 3:27]]. It can also signify personal restraint, as in the instruction to "refrain thy foot from their path" [[Proverbs 1:15]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of withholding and restraint:
* `{{H3985}}` **mâʼên** (to refuse): This word is a close synonym for the "deny" aspect of `{{H4513}}`. In [[Jeremiah 3:3]], the withholding (`mânaʻ`) of rain is directly linked to Israel's choice to refuse (`mâʼên`) to be ashamed.
* `{{H5414}}` **nâthan** (to give): As a direct antonym, this term highlights the positive action that is prevented by `{{H4513}}`. In [[Psalms 84:11]], God’s character is shown by His willingness to give (`nâthan`) grace and glory, which is paired with the promise that He will not withhold (`mânaʻ`) any good thing.
* `{{H2550}}` **châmal** (to spare; have compassion): This concept is connected to withholding harm or judgment. In [[Job 20:13]], a wicked person is described as one who will spare (`châmal`) a choice morsel and keep it still (`mânaʻ`) in his mouth, illustrating the act of holding back for selfish reasons.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4513}}` is significant, revealing key aspects of God's character and human duty.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The act of withholding physical blessings like rain [[Amos 4:7]] or providing sustenance like manna [[Nehemiah 9:20]] demonstrates God's absolute control over creation and His use of it for judgment and provision.
* **God's Providence and Protection:** God actively intervenes to keep back his people from sin and harm. He is credited for having "withholden" David from shedding blood [[1 Samuel 25:26]] and having "kept me back from hurting thee" [[1 Samuel 25:34]].
* **Moral and Ethical Obligation:** Scripture uses `{{H4513}}` to establish moral commands. Humans are instructed not to withhold good from others [[Proverbs 3:27]], correction from a child [[Proverbs 23:13]], or their sword from executing judgment when commanded by God [[Jeremiah 48:10]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4513}}` is a dynamic term that defines action through its absence—the denial of a benefit, the restraint from an evil act, or the holding back of judgment. It serves as a crucial word for understanding divine sovereignty, where God withholds rain as discipline or withholds nothing good from the upright. It also outlines a core tenet of biblical ethics, commanding believers to be givers rather than withholders, thereby reflecting the generous and protective character of God.
TRV