### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mâç**, represented by `{{H4523}}`, is defined as fainting, figuratively disconsolate, or being **afflicted**. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, which makes its single usage highly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H4523}}` is in [[Job 6:14]], where Job expresses his deep anguish and the failure of his friends. The verse states, "To him that is **afflicted** pity should be shewed from his friend; but he forsaketh the fear of the Almighty." Here, **mâç** describes Job's own desperate, fainting condition. The word frames a powerful contrast between the expected compassion from a friend and the friend's actual response, which Job likens to forsaking reverence for God.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of [[Job 6:14]] links `{{H4523}}` to several crucial concepts that define the verse's meaning:
* `{{H2617}}` **chêçêd** (pity): This word represents the kindness, mercy, and loving-kindness that should be shown to one who is afflicted. It is a foundational characteristic of God, who is described as "abundant in goodness{H2617} and truth" [[Exodus 34:6]].
* `{{H7453}}` **rêaʻ** (friend): This term for an associate or companion is central to the passage, as it identifies the person from whom **chêçêd** is expected. The ideal is a friend who sharpens another, as seen in the proverb, "a man sharpeneth the countenance of his **friend**" [[Proverbs 27:17]].
* `{{H5800}}` **ʻâzab** (forsaketh): This word denotes the act of relinquishing, leaving, or forsaking. In [[Job 6:14]], it describes the friend's failure, which stands in stark contrast to God's promise to His people: "he will not fail thee, nor **forsake** thee" [[Deuteronomy 31:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4523}}` is derived entirely from its singular, powerful context in the book of Job.
* **The Cry of the Afflicted:** The term gives voice to the profound despair and disconsolate state of one undergoing immense suffering, a central theme of Job's narrative.
* **The Duty of Compassion:** Its use in [[Job 6:14]] establishes a clear moral expectation: the correct response to affliction `{{H4523}}` is pity `{{H2617}}`. The failure to provide this is presented as a significant spiritual and relational failing.
* **Faithfulness in Suffering:** The verse connects the human response to affliction directly with one's relationship to God. The act of a friend forsaking the afflicted is equated with forsaking the fear `{{H3374}}` of the Almighty `{{H7706}}`, highlighting how human relationships can be a test of divine reverence.
### Summary
In summary, while **mâç** `{{H4523}}` appears only once, its placement in scripture is pivotal. It precisely defines the state of the disconsolate sufferer and serves as the fulcrum for a profound statement on friendship, compassion, and faithfulness to God in the midst of trial. The word's singular context in [[Job 6:14]] demonstrates how even the rarest biblical term can illuminate core theological truths about human suffering and moral responsibility.
TRV