### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **môçâr**, represented by `{{H4561}}`, provides a specific term for **admonition** or **instruction**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**, making its single context crucial to its meaning. It is derived from the word יָסַר, indicating a foundation in guidance and discipline.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H4561}}` appears in [[Job 33:16]], where it describes a divine action: "Then he openeth the ears of men, and sealeth their **instruction**." In this passage, the word refers to a form of teaching that God imparts directly to humanity. This is not a casual piece of advice, but a definitive and authoritative communication that is sealed, suggesting it is made sure, secure, and permanent for the recipient.
### Related Words & Concepts
The words used alongside `{{H4561}}` in [[Job 33:16]] help clarify its meaning:
* `{{H1540}}` **gâlâh** (to reveal): This root word means to denude, uncover, or reveal. It is used when God reveals secrets [[Amos 3:7]] or when a request is made to have one's eyes opened to see wondrous things in the law [[Psalms 119:18]]. It signifies a divine disclosure.
* `{{H241}}` **ʼôzen** (the ear): This word refers to the ear, the organ of hearing. Biblically, it represents a person's receptiveness to divine guidance. God is described as wakening the ear to hear [[Isaiah 50:4]], and turning away one's ear from the law is condemned [[Proverbs 28:9]].
* `{{H2856}}` **châtham** (to seal): This primitive root means to close up or seal. It is used for securing important documents like a book or testimony ([[Daniel 12:4]], [[Isaiah 8:16]]) and for making an end of sins [[Daniel 9:24]], signifying finality and authority.
* `{{H582}}` **ʼĕnôwsh** (a man in general): This term denotes a mortal, often highlighting human frailty in contrast to God ([[2 Chronicles 14:11]], [[Isaiah 51:12]]). However, it also describes man as the being who has a spirit and receives understanding from the Almighty [[Job 32:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4561}}` is concentrated in its single appearance, highlighting a specific mode of divine communication.
* **Active Divine Revelation:** The instruction is not sought by man but actively given by God, who "openeth" `{{H1540}}` the ears of mortals. This is consistent with passages where God reveals His plans and glory to His creation ([[Amos 3:7]], [[Isaiah 40:5]]).
* **Authoritative Teaching:** God "sealeth" `{{H2856}}` this instruction, imparting a sense of permanence, security, and unbreakable authority. Just as a law is sealed among disciples [[Isaiah 8:16]], this divine admonition is finalized and impressed upon the individual.
* **Personal Guidance for Mortals:** The recipient of this sealed instruction is **ʼĕnôwsh** `{{H582}}`, or mortal man. This emphasizes that God's direct, authoritative teaching is intended for humanity, communicating His will in a way that is certain and unalterable.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{H4561}}` is used only once, its context in [[Job 33:16]] gives it a powerful meaning. It describes more than simple instruction; it signifies a divinely revealed admonition that is personally and authoritatively sealed upon an individual by God Himself. Its meaning is defined by the divine actions of opening the ear to hear and sealing the message to ensure its permanence and impact.
TRV