### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mappâl**, represented by `{{H4651}}`, is derived from a root meaning "to fall". It is defined as a falling off, i.e. chaff; also something pendulous, i.e. a flap; flake, refuse. This term appears only **2 times** in **2 unique verses**, carrying two distinct meanings: the worthless byproduct of grain and the formidable plates of an animal's hide.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two uses of `{{H4651}}` stand in sharp contrast. In the prophetic book of Amos, it refers to the **refuse** of the wheat, a worthless material that dishonest merchants sell to the poor and needy to maximize profit [[Amos 8:6]]. This context frames the word with themes of social injustice and deceit. Conversely, in the book of Job, the word is translated as **flakes** to describe the flesh of a mighty creature. These flakes are not weak or falling off; instead, they are "joined together" and "firm," so much so that they "cannot be moved" [[Job 41:23]], illustrating immense strength and invulnerability.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the two contexts of `{{H4651}}`:
* `{{H1250}}` **bâr** (wheat): This is the valuable grain from which the worthless **refuse** `{{H4651}}` is separated. In Amos, the merchants are condemned for selling this refuse of the **wheat** [[Amos 8:6]].
* `{{H1320}}` **bâsâr** (flesh): This word provides the substance for the "flakes" in Job. The **flakes** `{{H4651}}` are a part of the creature's **flesh** [[Job 41:23]].
* `{{H1692}}` **dâbaq** (to cling or adhere): This verb is used to describe the "flakes" of flesh, stating they are "joined together" [[Job 41:23]], emphasizing their strength and contradicting the "falling off" sense of the root word.
* `{{H4131}}` **môwṭ** (to waver; by implication, to slip, shake, fall): This word powerfully contrasts with the essence of `{{H4651}}` in Job, stating that the flakes of flesh "cannot be **moved**" [[Job 41:23]], highlighting their firmness.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H4651}}` is seen in its divergent applications:
* **Condemnation of Injustice:** In Amos, the word is a key element in God's judgment against those who exploit the poor. Selling the **refuse** of wheat demonstrates a heart that values profit over people, turning something valueless into a tool of oppression against the poor (`{{H1800}}`) and needy (`{{H34}}`) [[Amos 8:6]].
* **Demonstration of Divine Power:** In Job, the use of `mappâl` to describe something that *cannot* fall off serves as a powerful literary device. The immovable **flakes** of flesh on God's creation display a level of strength and design that is beyond human challenge, illustrating God's absolute sovereignty and power [[Job 41:23]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4651}}` is a rare but potent term whose meaning is defined entirely by its context. It can represent the lowest point of value—the worthless **refuse** used by the greedy to cheat the poor [[Amos 8:6]]. At the same time, it can describe the unshakeable components of a mighty creature, the firmly joined **flakes** of flesh that serve as a testament to the awesome power of God the Creator [[Job 41:23]]. Through these two appearances, the word spans the concepts of worthless refuse and invincible strength.
TRV