from עָרַךְ; an arrangement, i.e. (figuratively) mental disposition; preparation.
Transliteration:maʻărâk
Pronunciation:mah-ar-awk'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew noun H4633 (מַעֲרָךְ, *maʻărâk*) derives from the verbal root `{{H6186}}` (עָרַךְ, *ʻârak*), which fundamentally means "to arrange," "to set in order," "to prepare," or "to array." As a noun, H4633 signifies the *result* of such an action or the *act* of arranging itself. Its semantic range extends from concrete, external arrangements to more abstract, internal dispositions.
Literally, it can denote an "arrangement," "order," or "setting in place," often implying a structured formation. Figuratively, and perhaps more profoundly in its biblical usage, it refers to a "mental disposition," "preparation of the heart," or an "internal ordering" of one's thoughts and intentions. This duality highlights both the external organization of things and the internal state of the human will and mind.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term H4633 appears sparingly in the Hebrew Bible, but its occurrences are highly significant, illustrating both its literal and figurative meanings.
One prominent instance is found in [[Proverbs 16:1]]: "The preparations of the heart belong to man, but the answer of the tongue is from the LORD." Here, maʻărâk clearly refers to the "preparations" or "arrangements" of the human heart (לֵב, *lev*). This is the figurative sense, emphasizing the internal planning, intentions, and dispositions that a person cultivates. The verse presents a profound theological truth: while humanity is endowed with the capacity to plan and prepare, the ultimate outcome, the decisive word or "answer of the tongue," rests solely with Yahweh. This does not negate human responsibility but places it firmly under divine sovereignty.
Another key occurrence is in [[2 Chronicles 13:8]]: "And now you think to withstand the kingdom of the LORD in the hand of the sons of David, when you are a great multitude and have with you golden calves, which Jeroboam made for you as gods." In this context, maʻărâk (often translated as "battle array" or "military formation") refers to the organized arrangement of troops for warfare. Here, the word takes on its more literal meaning of an ordered arrangement, specifically a strategic formation of an army. The verse highlights the futility of relying on human strength and numbers (a "great multitude" with its "battle array") when opposing God's chosen kingdom.
These two primary contexts demonstrate the breadth of H4633: from the internal disposition of the heart to the external ordering of a military force, both ultimately subject to the divine will.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word is the verbal root from which H4633 is derived, `{{H6186}}` (עָרַךְ, *ʻârak*), "to arrange, set in order, prepare." Understanding the verb illuminates the noun, as maʻărâk is the concrete or abstract result of this act of ordering.
Other derivatives of `{{H6186}}` include:
* `{{H6187}}` (עֵרֶךְ, *ʻêrek*): "arrangement," "estimation," "valuation." This term often refers to an ordered sequence or a calculated assessment.
* `{{H4634}}` (מַעֲרָכָה, *maʻărākâ*): "arrangement," "battle array," "row" (as of showbread). This noun is very closely related to H4633 and often used interchangeably in contexts of military formation or the ordered setting out of items (e.g., the showbread in the Tabernacle/Temple, [[Leviticus 24:6]]). While maʻărâk can describe the general concept of arrangement or disposition, maʻărākâ often specifies a particular formation or a set row.
Thematically, H4633 connects with concepts of:
* **Human Planning and Intentions:** The internal "preparations of the heart" speak to human agency and the formation of purposes.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The counterpoint in [[Proverbs 16:1]] underscores God's ultimate control over outcomes, even those planned by humans.
* **Order and Discipline:** In its military context, it highlights the importance of strategic arrangement and disciplined formation.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of H4633 is profound, particularly as revealed in [[Proverbs 16:1]]. This verse encapsulates a foundational biblical truth about the relationship between human effort and divine sovereignty. The "preparations of the heart" (מַעֲרָךְ לֵב) emphasize human responsibility to plan, to intend, and to cultivate an internal disposition. God has granted humanity the capacity for thought, foresight, and decision-making. However, the verse immediately qualifies this by stating that the "answer of the tongue" (מֵהַשֵּׁם מַעֲנֵה לָשׁוֹן) belongs to the Lord. This signifies that the ultimate outcome, the decisive word, the final determination, or the successful execution of a plan, rests entirely with God.
This does not imply that human planning is futile, but rather that it must be undertaken with humility and dependence upon God. It calls believers to diligent preparation while simultaneously fostering a spirit of trust and submission to divine providence. It reminds us that while we may arrange our internal thoughts and external circumstances, God is the ultimate Arranger and Disposer of all things.
In the military context of [[2 Chronicles 13:8]], maʻărâk underscores that even the most formidable human arrangements and displays of power are ultimately subject to God's judgment and will. The outcome of battles, like the outcome of personal plans, is not determined by human strength or meticulous preparation alone, but by the sovereign decree of the Almighty.
### Summary
The Hebrew word H4633 (מַעֲרָךְ, *maʻărâk*) signifies an "arrangement," "preparation," or "disposition," derived from the root `{{H6186}}` meaning "to set in order." Its usage in the Hebrew Bible beautifully illustrates both its literal sense of external ordering, such as a "battle array" ([[2 Chronicles 13:8]]), and its profound figurative meaning as the "preparations of the heart" ([[Proverbs 16:1]]). The latter passage offers a pivotal theological insight: while humans are responsible for their internal dispositions and plans, the ultimate outcome and the final word belong to the LORD. This word thus serves as a powerful reminder of both human agency and, more importantly, the overarching and decisive sovereignty of God in all matters, whether they pertain to the inner life of an individual or the grand affairs of nations.
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