### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mâtsâh**, represented by `{{H4680}}`, is a primitive root that means **to suck out**, **drain**, or **squeeze out**. It appears **7 times** in **7 unique verses**, conveying an action of thorough extraction or wringing. The term is applied both literally, such as wringing a wet object completely dry, and figuratively, to describe the complete consumption of divine judgment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{H4680}}` appears in both literal and figurative contexts. Literally, it describes Gideon wringing dew from a **fleece** `{{H1492}}` to confirm God's sign [[Judges 6:38]]. It is also used in Levitical law, where the **blood** `{{H1818}}` of a sin offering is to be **wrung out** at the side of the **altar** `{{H4196}}` ([[Leviticus 1:15]], [[Leviticus 5:9]]). Figuratively, the word illustrates divine judgment. The **wicked** `{{H7563}}` of the earth must **wring out** and drink the dregs from the LORD's **cup** `{{H3563}}` [[Psalms 75:8]]. In a similar manner, **Jerusalem** `{{H3389}}` is addressed as having **wrung out** the cup of God's **fury** `{{H2534}}` [[Isaiah 51:17]], and Ezekiel describes the experience as having to **suck it out** completely [[Ezekiel 23:34]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context in which `{{H4680}}` is used:
* `{{H3563}}` **kôwç** (a cup (as a container), often figuratively, a lot (as if a potion)): The **cup** is a powerful symbol often associated with `mâtsâh`, representing a portion of divine **fury** `{{H2534}}` that must be wrung out and drunk by the wicked [[Psalms 75:8]] or by Jerusalem [[Isaiah 51:17]].
* `{{H1818}}` **dâm** (blood): In the context of sacrifices, **blood** is the substance that is **wrung out** at the **altar** `{{H4196}}`, signifying the draining of life required for a **sin offering** `{{H2403}}` [[Leviticus 1:15]].
* `{{H1492}}` **gâzzah** (a fleece): This word is central to the account of Gideon, who tests God by wringing the **dew** `{{H2919}}` from the **fleece** [[Judges 6:38]]. The action of wringing demonstrates the tangible and complete nature of the divine sign.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4680}}` is significant, highlighting the exhaustive nature of God's actions.
* **The Cup of Judgment:** The most powerful theological use of `mâtsâh` is in the imagery of the cup of God's wrath. The act of wringing it out signifies that none of the judgment can be avoided; it must be consumed to the last drop by the **wicked** `{{H7563}}` [[Psalms 75:8]] and by God's people under discipline [[Isaiah 51:17]].
* **Completeness in Ritual:** In Levitical law, wringing out the **blood** `{{H1818}}` of the sacrifice against the **altar** `{{H4196}}` was a prescribed part of the ritual [[Leviticus 5:9]]. This emphasizes the thoroughness required in the sacrificial system, where the life of the offering is fully given over.
* **Thoroughness of Divine Action:** Whether in judgment or in providing a sign, `mâtsâh` implies a complete and exhaustive action. Gideon wrings a **bowl** `{{H5602}}` full of **water** `{{H4325}}` from the fleece, leaving no doubt about God's message [[Judges 6:38]]. Likewise, those who drink the cup of judgment must **suck it out**, a graphic portrayal of utter desolation [[Ezekiel 23:34]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4680}}` **mâtsâh** is a visceral term for completely draining or squeezing out a liquid. It moves from a literal, physical action seen in Gideon's fleece and Levitical sacrifices to a potent metaphor for the totality of an experience, particularly the exhaustive nature of divine judgment. The word consistently communicates a sense of finality and completeness, where nothing is left behind.
TRV