### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **maʻădannâh**, represented by `{{H4575}}`, is defined as a **bond**, i.e. group; **influence**. It is a rare term, appearing only **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its meaning is derived from its singular, powerful context within a divine speech.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H4575}}` is in the book of Job, where God challenges Job's understanding of creation. In a rhetorical question designed to highlight divine power versus human limitation, God asks, "Canst thou bind the sweet **influences** of Pleiades, or loose the bands of Orion?" [[Job 38:31]]. Here, the word refers to the binding force or cohesive influence that holds the Pleiades star cluster together, a celestial phenomenon that is entirely under God's control.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in its immediate context help clarify the meaning of `{{H4575}}`:
* `{{H7194}}` **qâshar** (to tie, ... bind): This is the verb used directly with **maʻădannâh** in [[Job 38:31]]. It signifies a strong connection, whether physically binding something as a sign [[Deuteronomy 6:8]] or mentally and emotionally, as when the soul of Jonathan was **knit** with David's [[1 Samuel 18:1]].
* `{{H6605}}` **pâthach** (to open wide ... loose): Used in direct contrast within the same verse, this word means to loosen or set free. It is used elsewhere to describe God putting **off** one's sackcloth [[Psalms 30:11]] or a fountain being **opened** for sin [[Zechariah 13:1]].
* `{{H4189}}` **môwshᵉkâh** (band): This noun is used as a parallel to `{{H4575}}` in the second half of the verse, referring to the "bands of Orion." Its definition as "something drawing, i.e. (figuratively) a cord; **band**" reinforces the idea of a cosmic bond.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4575}}` is tied directly to its singular use in illustrating God's omnipotence.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The word is central to God's argument that His power over the cosmos is absolute. Man cannot manipulate the "influences" of the stars, demonstrating that the forces holding the universe together are subject to God alone [[Job 38:31]].
* **Creative Power:** By referencing the "bond" of a star cluster, the term highlights God's role not just as a creator who set things in motion, but as an active sustainer who establishes and maintains the very influences and laws that govern creation.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4575}}` is a highly specific term whose meaning is entirely shaped by its context in [[Job 38:31]]. As the "influences" or "bond" of the Pleiades, it serves as a powerful illustration of God's unchallengeable sovereignty over the universe. While appearing only once, it contributes significantly to one of scripture's most profound declarations of divine power and creative authority.
TRV