### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mâçak**, represented by `{{H4537}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to mix, especially wine (with spices); mingle**. It appears 5 times in 5 unique verses, illustrating its use in both literal and figurative contexts, from preparing a beverage to describing an act of God.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H4537}}` carries different connotations depending on the context. In the book of Proverbs, it is used positively, where personified wisdom has **mingled** her wine as part of a prepared feast, inviting others to partake ([[Proverbs 9:2]], [[Proverbs 9:5]]). Conversely, it is used in a context of woe and judgment in Isaiah, warning those who are mighty to **mingle** strong drink [[Isaiah 5:22]]. The word also expresses profound sorrow, as the psalmist describes having **mingled** his drink with weeping [[Psalms 102:9]]. Finally, it describes a powerful act of divine judgment, where the LORD has **mingled** a perverse spirit into Egypt to cause it to err [[Isaiah 19:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to clarify the contexts in which **mâçak** is used:
* `{{H3196}}` **yayin** (wine): This is the most common substance associated with being mingled. It is used in contexts of both joyful celebration and warning, as seen in the command to drink **wine** with a merry heart [[Ecclesiastes 9:7]].
* `{{H7941}}` **shêkâr** (strong drink): This term, defined as an intoxicant, is used alongside `{{H4537}}` to denote a beverage leading to ruin. The Bible warns that **strong drink** is raging and can deceive a person [[Proverbs 20:1]].
* `{{H1065}}` **Bᵉkîy** (weeping): This word is mingled with drink to express deep grief [[Psalms 102:9]]. It is often associated with heartfelt repentance or sorrow, as when the LORD hears the voice of **weeping** [[Psalms 6:8]].
* `{{H7307}}` **rûwach** (spirit): In a powerful figurative use, God mingles a perverse **spirit** to enact judgment [[Isaiah 19:14]]. This same word is used to describe the power by which God accomplishes his will, as in the declaration, "Not by might, nor by power, but by my **spirit**" [[Zechariah 4:6]].
### Theological Significance
The conceptual weight of `{{H4537}}` is demonstrated through its varied applications:
* **Invitation to Wisdom:** In Proverbs, the act of mingling wine is part of a divine invitation. Wisdom prepares and offers her **mingled** wine, symbolizing the rich and satisfying nature of a life lived by God's principles [[Proverbs 9:5]].
* **Human Vice and Judgment:** The word is used to condemn the self-destructive behavior of those who **mingle** strong drink. This act is presented not as celebration but as a path to woe and divine displeasure [[Isaiah 5:22]].
* **Expression of Profound Sorrow:** Mingling drink with tears illustrates a state of utter desolation, where even the basic act of drinking is saturated with grief [[Psalms 102:9]].
* **Divine Intervention:** The most potent use shows God as the one who **mingles** a perverse spirit within a nation to bring about judgment. This illustrates God's sovereignty over nations, using confusion as a tool to accomplish His purposes [[Isaiah 19:14]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4537}}` **mâçak** is a versatile word whose meaning is defined by what is being mixed and for what purpose. It can represent a wholesome invitation to partake in wisdom, a dangerous indulgence in worldly excess, an outward sign of inner anguish, or a sovereign act of divine judgment. The word shows how a simple physical action—mixing—can serve as a powerful metaphor for spiritual realities.
TRV