### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **maʻămâçâh**, represented by `{{H4614}}`, translates to **burdensomeness** or **burdensome**. It is derived from the root word ʻâmaç `{{H6006}}`, which means to load or impose a burden. This specific term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, highlighting its highly focused and impactful meaning.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{H4614}}` occurs in [[Zechariah 12:3]], a prophetic declaration about the final status of Jerusalem. The verse states, "And in that day `{{H3117}}` will I make `{{H7760}}` Jerusalem `{{H3389}}` a **burdensome** `{{H4614}}` stone `{{H68}}` for all people `{{H5971}}`." The passage warns that any who attempt to interfere with the city, or "burden `{{H6006}}` themselves with it," will be "cut in pieces `{{H8295}}``{{H8295}}`." This outcome is certain, even if all the heathen `{{H1471}}` of the earth `{{H776}}` are gathered together `{{H622}}` against it.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context illuminate the meaning of `{{H4614}}`:
* `{{H6006}}` **ʻâmaç**: This root verb, meaning **to load, i.e. impose a burden**, is the direct source of **maʻămâçâh**. It is used for both negative burdens, like lading asses [[Nehemiah 13:15]], and positive ones, as when God "daily loadeth us with benefits" [[Psalms 68:19]].
* `{{H68}}` **ʼeben** (a stone): This is the object that Jerusalem becomes. A stone can be a foundation for belief [[Isaiah 28:16]] or a rejected object that becomes the head of the corner [[Psalms 118:22]], but here it is an immovable, burdensome weight.
* `{{H3389}}` **Yᵉrûwshâlaim** (Jerusalem): The city itself is the focal point. It is described as a place of coming salvation [[Zechariah 9:9]] and a people God protects [[2 Chronicles 20:17]], making the prophecy of it becoming a burden a significant turning point.
* `{{H8295}}` **sâraṭ** (to gash; cut in pieces): This describes the severe consequence for those who oppose God's plan for Jerusalem. The word is used elsewhere for making cuttings in the flesh [[Leviticus 21:5]], emphasizing the violent and self-inflicted nature of the injury.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4614}}` is concentrated in its single appearance.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** God is the one who declares, "I will make `{{H7760}}` Jerusalem a burdensome stone." This is an act of divine appointment, demonstrating God's ultimate control over the nations `{{H1471}}` and their plans concerning His chosen city [[Zechariah 12:3]].
* **A Test of Nations:** The "burdensome stone" functions as a divine test. How nations and peoples `{{H5971}}` interact with Jerusalem reveals their posture toward God Himself. Trying to move it is an act of defiance against its appointed purpose.
* **Guaranteed Judgment:** The warning is absolute: all who attempt to lift this stone "shall be cut in pieces `{{H8295}}`." This illustrates a principle of divine judgment where opposition to God's will results in self-destruction, regardless of the collective strength of the opposition [[Zechariah 12:3]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4614}}` **maʻămâçâh** is a term whose rarity underscores its significance. It describes not just a weight, but a divinely appointed and immovable burden. Its sole use in [[Zechariah 12:3]] transforms Jerusalem into a prophetic symbol of confrontation, where the city becomes a tool of judgment against all nations who would oppose God's sovereign plan. The word powerfully conveys that meddling with God's purposes is a self-destructive act.
TRV