### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **miphlâʼâh**, represented by `{{H4652}}`, is defined as **a miracle; wondrous work**. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in a single verse of the Bible, making its specific context highly significant. It points to a miraculous act or creation that inspires awe.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole instance of `{{H4652}}` is found in the book of Job. In a challenge to Job's understanding, the question is posed, "Dost thou know the balancings of the clouds, the **wondrous works** of him which is perfect in knowledge?" [[Job 37:16]]. Here, the term is used to describe the marvelous and inexplicable phenomena of nature, presenting them as miracles crafted by God. The "wondrous works" are placed in parallel with "the balancings of the clouds," suggesting that the ordinary functions of creation are, in themselves, miraculous acts of a divine creator.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context in [[Job 37:16]] help illuminate the meaning of `{{H4652}}`:
* `{{H4657}}` **miphlâs** (balancing): Used in direct parallel, this word for "a poising; balancing" frames the "wondrous works" as acts of perfect, intricate design within creation.
* `{{H3045}}` **yâdaʻ** (to know): The verse uses this term to question human understanding ("Dost thou **know**..."), contrasting our limited perception with God's miraculous power.
* `{{H8549}}` **tâmîym** (perfect): This describes the author of the "wondrous works." The term means "entire... without blemish, complete, full, perfect," linking the miracle to the flawless nature of God.
* `{{H1843}}` **dêaʻ** (knowledge): The verse attributes the wondrous works to one who is perfect in **knowledge**, emphasizing that these miracles are a product of divine wisdom.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4652}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful use.
* **Miracles in Nature:** The term establishes that God's miraculous power is not confined to overt supernatural events but is present in the intricate and sustained workings of the natural world.
* **Divine Perfection:** The "wondrous works" are explicitly the product of a being who is "perfect{H8549} in knowledge{H1843}" [[Job 37:16]]. This connects God's miraculous acts to His perfect character and omniscience, a concept reinforced elsewhere when His work and law are also called "perfect" ([[Deuteronomy 32:4]], [[Psalms 19:7]]).
* **Human Limitation:** The word is used within a rhetorical question designed to highlight the profound gap between humanity's ability to comprehend and God's ability to create and sustain.
### Summary
In summary, while appearing only once, `{{H4652}}` **miphlâʼâh** provides a specific and profound understanding of miracles. It defines God's "wondrous works" not just as interventions, but as the very fabric of creation itself. Its use in [[Job 37:16]] serves as a key reminder of the divine, perfect knowledge behind the natural phenomena that lie beyond the scope of human understanding.
TRV