from נָצָה; a quarrel; contention, debate, strife.
Transliteration:matstsâh
Pronunciation:mats-tsaw'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H4683}}` (מַצָּה, *matstsâh*) is derived from the root `{{H5344}}` (נָצָה, *natsah*), which fundamentally conveys the idea of "to tear down, to pull down, to contend, or to strive." This etymological connection is crucial, as it imbues `{{H4683}}` with a core meaning related to destructive conflict. Its primary definition is "a quarrel," extending semantically to "contention," "debate," and "strife." These terms collectively describe a state of sharp disagreement, often involving verbal or even physical conflict, where relationships are strained or broken, and peace is disrupted. The word thus encapsulates the act and state of hostile contention, reflecting a tearing apart of unity or social fabric.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The occurrences of `{{H4683}}` in the Hebrew Bible consistently underscore its negative connotations, associating it with negative human behaviors and societal breakdown.
* In [[Exodus 21:18]], `{{H4683}}` describes a physical altercation: "If men quarrel and one strikes the other with a stone or with his fist and he does not die but is confined to bed..." Here, `{{H4683}}` denotes the initial act of contention that escalates into physical harm, highlighting its potential for violence and injury.
* The majority of occurrences are found in the book of Proverbs, where `{{H4683}}` is frequently linked to folly, wickedness, and pride.
* [[Proverbs 13:10]] states, "By insolence comes nothing but strife, but with those who take advice is wisdom." This verse directly connects `{{H4683}}` with arrogance and pride, contrasting it with the peace and understanding that accompany wisdom and humility.
* [[Proverbs 17:19]] asserts, "He who loves transgression loves strife; he who makes his gate high seeks destruction." Here, `{{H4683}}` is presented as a consequence or manifestation of a love for sin and rebellion against God's order.
* [[Proverbs 18:6]] warns, "A fool's lips enter into contention, and his mouth invites blows." The foolish person, lacking discretion and wisdom, is prone to initiating `{{H4683}}`.
* [[Proverbs 22:10]] advises, "Drive out a scoffer, and strife will go out, and quarrels and insults will cease." This verse identifies scoffers as instigators of `{{H4683}}`, suggesting that their removal is necessary for restoring peace.
* [[Proverbs 26:21]] uses a vivid simile: "As charcoal to hot embers and wood to fire, so is a quarrelsome man for kindling strife." This illustrates how a contentious person actively fuels and perpetuates `{{H4683}}`.
* In [[Habakkuk 1:3]], the prophet laments the pervasive injustice and violence in society: "Why do you make me see iniquity and look at trouble? Destruction and violence are before me; strife and contention arise." Here, `{{H4683}}` is part of a litany of societal ills, indicating a widespread breakdown of order and justice, symptomatic of a people straying from God's ways.
Across these contexts, `{{H4683}}` consistently describes disruptive, often aggressive, conflict that undermines social harmony and personal well-being.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of `{{H4683}}` includes several closely related terms that also denote conflict and discord:
* `{{H5344}}` (נָצָה, *natsah*): The verbal root from which `{{H4683}}` is derived, meaning "to contend, strive, tear down." This root highlights the destructive nature inherent in `{{H4683}}`.
* `{{H4066}}` (מָדוֹן, *mādôn*): Often translated as "contention" or "strife," `{{H4066}}` is a very close synonym to `{{H4683}}`, frequently appearing in Proverbs to describe domestic or interpersonal quarrels.
* `{{H7379}}` (רִיב, *rîḇ*): This term refers to a "dispute," "controversy," or "legal case," often implying a more formal or judicial form of contention, though it can also describe general strife.
* `{{H2797}}` (חָרוֹן, *ḥārôn*): Meaning "burning anger" or "wrath," `{{H2797}}` often underlies or fuels `{{H4683}}`.
* The antithesis of `{{H4683}}` is `{{H7965}}` (שָׁלוֹם, *shalom*), which signifies peace, wholeness, well-being, and harmony – the very states that `{{H4683}}` actively disrupts. Other contrasting concepts include wisdom, unity, and righteousness.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H4683}}` is profound, as it speaks to the disruption of God's intended order and the consequences of human sin.
* **Disruption of Shalom:** `{{H4683}}` fundamentally opposes *shalom*, the comprehensive peace and well-being that God desires for His creation and His people. It represents a tearing apart of relationships and community, directly contrary to the unity and love commanded by the divine law.
* **Fruit of Sin and Folly:** The biblical texts, particularly Proverbs, consistently portray `{{H4683}}` as a direct consequence or manifestation of human sinfulness. Pride, foolishness, wickedness, and a rebellious spirit are shown to breed contention. This highlights that strife is not merely an external problem but originates from a disordered heart.
* **Divine Displeasure:** God's word often condemns those who sow discord and engage in `{{H4683}}`. It is listed among the behaviors that are an abomination to the Lord ([[Proverbs 6:19]]). This underscores that contention is not merely an interpersonal issue but an offense against the divine order and God's character, who is a God of peace.
* **Call to Righteousness:** The pervasive warnings against `{{H4683}}` serve as a call for believers to pursue wisdom, humility, and righteousness. Overcoming strife requires a transformation of the heart and a commitment to living in accordance with God's will, fostering reconciliation and peace.
* **Lament over Brokenness:** In prophetic literature like Habakkuk, the presence of `{{H4683}}` in society is a sign of deep moral decay and injustice, prompting lament and a cry for divine intervention. It signifies a world out of sync with God's justice and righteousness.
### Summary
`{{H4683}}` (מַצָּה, *matstsâh*) denotes "a quarrel," "contention," or "strife," stemming from a root that implies tearing down or striving. Its biblical usage consistently portrays it as a highly negative phenomenon, often linked to foolishness, pride, and transgression, leading to physical harm or societal breakdown. Predominantly found in Proverbs, it stands in stark contrast to wisdom and peace. Theologically, `{{H4683}}` represents a profound disruption of God's intended *shalom* and is a clear indicator of human sinfulness. Its condemnation throughout Scripture serves as a call for believers to actively pursue peace, humility, and righteousness, thereby reflecting the character of God and fostering harmonious relationships.
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