### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mappâch**, represented by `{{H4646}}`, means a **breathing out (of life)**, signifying expiring or giving up. It appears only **1 times** in **1 unique verses**, making it a highly specific term within the biblical text. Its sole usage defines it as a metaphor for the final and complete loss of hope.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its singular biblical appearance, `{{H4646}}` describes the ultimate fate of the wicked. [[Job 11:20]] states that the **eyes** `{{H5869}}` of the **wicked** `{{H7563}}` will **fail** `{{H3615}}` and they will have no escape. Their **hope** `{{H8615}}` is likened to the **giving up** `{{H4646}}` of the **ghost** `{{H5315}}`, painting a picture of absolute finality and the cessation of life.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context in [[Job 11:20]] clarify its meaning:
* `{{H8615}}` **tiqvâh** (hope): Defined as expectancy or expectation, this is the very thing that is extinguished. For the wicked, their hope culminates in the "giving up" described by `{{H4646}}`.
* `{{H5315}}` **nephesh** (ghost): Meaning a breathing creature, vitality, life, or soul, this is what is being given up. The loss of hope is equated with the loss of life itself.
* `{{H3615}}` **kâlâh** (fail): Meaning to end, perish, or expire, this word is used to describe the failing eyes of the wicked in the same verse, reinforcing the theme of a definitive and terminal end.
* `{{H4498}}` **mânôwç** (escape): This word for a retreat or refuge is used to state that the wicked will not escape, sealing their fate and leading to the final "giving up" [[Job 11:20]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4646}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful usage.
* **The Consequence of Wickedness:** The term is used exclusively to describe the end of the **wicked** `{{H7563}}`, whose hope perishes completely. Their fate is portrayed as an irreversible expiration of life [[Job 11:20]].
* **The Cessation of Hope:** `{{H4646}}` stands as the antithesis of **hope** `{{H8615}}`. While hope is presented elsewhere as a divine gift and trust [[Psalms 71:5]], for the wicked it is something that ultimately fails, ending in a final "giving up."
* **The Expiration of Life:** The definition, "a breathing out (of life)," directly connects the loss of hope to physical death. The phrase "giving up of the **ghost** `{{H5315}}`" in [[Job 11:20]] solidifies that this is not merely disappointment, but a terminal end for the soul.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4646}}` is a precise and potent term for ultimate despair. Though appearing only once, its context in [[Job 11:20]] defines it as the complete and final expiration of both hope and life. It serves as a stark depiction of the end reserved for the wicked, where all expectation is extinguished in a final "breathing out" of the soul.
TRV