The Hebrew word 'abiyr, represented by H46, means mighty or mighty one, specifically spoken of God. It appears 6 times across 6 unique verses in the Bible, highlighting its specific application within scripture. Its base definition indicates it derives from a root meaning "to be strong."
H46 is consistently used to describe the mighty nature of God. In Genesis 49:24, it describes the "mighty God of Jacob," whose hands strengthen the arms. The term is linked to God's role as Saviour H3467 and Redeemer H1350 of His people, as seen in Isaiah 60:16 and Isaiah 49:26, where He is called "the mighty One of Jacob." It also appears as "the mighty One of Israel" Isaiah 1:24 in the context of the Lord H113, the LORD of hosts, who acts against adversaries. Psalms 132:2 and Psalms 132:5 refer to the "mighty God of Jacob" in the context of vows to the Lord and finding a habitation for Him.
Several related words expand upon the concept of might and divine power:
- H113 'âdôwn (lord, master): This term denotes sovereignty and control, often applied to God, as seen when the Lord H113 is referred to as "the mighty One of Israel" Isaiah 1:24.
- H1350 gâ'al (redeem, redeemer): This highlights God's role as a kinsman-redeemer, a concept directly linked to H46 when God is identified as both "thy Saviour" H3467 and "thy Redeemer" H1350, "the mighty One" Isaiah 60:16.
- H3467 yâshaʻ (save, saviour): Signifying freedom and succor, this word frequently accompanies H46, as God is referred to as "thy Saviour" and "the mighty One of Jacob" Isaiah 49:26.
- H386 'êythân (mighty, strong): This term denotes permanence and strength, used in conjunction with H46 to describe the strength of a bow and the hands made strong by "the mighty God" Genesis 49:24.
- H6339 pâzaz (made strong, leap): This root signifies solidification and being made strong, directly linking to the strengthening power of "the mighty God of Jacob" Genesis 49:24.
- H7198 qesheth (bow, strength): This word, referring to a bow, also figuratively represents strength, and appears in the same verse where the "bow abode in strength" by the hands of "the mighty God" Genesis 49:24.
The theological weight of H46 is immense. It forms the basis of our understanding of God's character and His actions:
- Divine Power and Authority: The consistent application of H46 to God underscores His supreme strength and sovereign control over all things, establishing Him as the ultimate "mighty One."
- God as Protector and Deliverer: When paired with terms like Saviour H3467 and Redeemer H1350, H46 emphasizes God's active power in delivering His people from oppression and adversaries Isaiah 49:26.
- Covenant Fidelity: The recurring phrase "mighty God of Jacob" (Genesis 49:24, Psalms 132:2, Psalms 132:5) highlights God's enduring commitment and strength within His covenant relationship with Israel.
In summary, H46 'abiyr is a powerful descriptor for God, signifying His unmatched might and strength. Its usage uniformly points to God as the ultimate source of power, salvation, and redemption. The term solidifies the biblical portrayal of God as an active, potent, and faithful divine Sovereign H113 who intervenes on behalf of His people.
TRV