### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mâʻad**, represented by `{{H4571}}`, is a primitive root defined as **to waver; make to shake, slide, slip**. It appears a total of **6 times** in **6 unique verses**, making each usage significant. The word vividly portrays a state of instability, both in a literal physical sense and as a powerful metaphor for spiritual or moral precariousness.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H4571}}` is used to contrast the security of the righteous with the instability of the wicked. For the faithful, stability is a divine promise; one who has walked in integrity and trusted in the LORD declares, "I shall not **slide**" [[Psalms 26:1]]. Similarly, the one whose heart contains the law of God will find that "none of his steps shall **slide**" [[Psalms 37:31]]. This security is an act of God, who enlarges the steps of his servant so that his "feet did not **slip**" ([[2 Samuel 22:37]], [[Psalms 18:36]]). Conversely, the term is used in a curse against enemies, asking God to "make their loins continually to **shake**" [[Psalms 69:23]], and it describes the one who is "ready to **slip** with his feet" [[Job 12:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concepts of stability and the path one walks:
* `{{H838}}` **'âshur** (a step): This word for a step or going is directly linked to the potential for instability. A person's security is measured by whether their **steps** will **slide** [[Psalms 37:31]].
* `{{H3559}}` **kûwn** (to be erect, establish, fix, prepare): This word represents the state of being firm or established, the direct opposite of wavering. It is used to describe one who is **ready** to slip, highlighting the contrast between being prepared for security and being on the verge of collapse [[Job 12:5]].
* `{{H982}}` **bâṭach** (to trust, be confident or sure): This term identifies the spiritual foundation that prevents sliding. The declaration of stability, "I shall not slide," is immediately preceded by the statement, "I have **trusted** also in the LORD" [[Psalms 26:1]].
* `{{H7337}}` **râchab** (to broaden, make large): This word describes God's action in providing a secure path. God has **enlarged** the steps of the psalmist, which is the direct cause of his feet not slipping [[Psalms 18:36]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H4571}}` is centered on the source of a believer's steadfastness.
* **The Foundation of Integrity:** The concept of not sliding is directly tied to a life of **integrity** and trust in God. Walking uprightly provides a firm footing that prevents moral and spiritual collapse [[Psalms 26:1]].
* **God as Stabilizer and Judge:** God is portrayed as the active agent of stability. He provides a wide, safe path for the righteous [[Psalms 18:36]]. At the same time, He is the one who can bring about instability as a form of judgment, causing the loins of the wicked to **shake** [[Psalms 69:23]].
* **A Metaphor for the Spiritual Walk:** The physical act of slipping or wavering serves as a metaphor for one's spiritual journey. A life founded on God's **law** is secure [[Psalms 37:31]], while a life of arrogant ease is one of contempt, always ready to **slip** [[Job 12:5]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4571}}` provides a dynamic illustration of the difference between a life founded on God and one that is not. More than just physical motion, to **slide**, **slip**, or **shake** represents a state of spiritual vulnerability and impending failure. The word powerfully contrasts the secure footing granted by God through trust and obedience with the inherent instability that characterizes a life apart from Him or under His judgment.
TRV