from the same as מֵצַח; a shinpiece of armor (as prominent), only plural; greaves.
Transliteration:mitschâh
Pronunciation:mits-khaw'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term מִצְחָה (mitschâh, `{{H4697}}`) is derived from the same root as מֵצַח (metzach, `{{H4696}}`), which signifies "forehead." This etymological connection suggests something prominent or projecting. In its specific usage, מִצְחָה refers to a piece of defensive armor designed to protect the shins, commonly translated as "greaves." The base definition indicates it is a "shinpiece of armor (as prominent)." It is notably found only in the plural form, implying a pair of greaves, one for each leg. Thus, its semantic range is highly specific, denoting a particular component of military protective gear worn on the lower legs.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term מִצְחָה (mitschâh, `{{H4697}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in the vivid description of the Philistine giant Goliath: "He had bronze greaves on his legs, and a bronze javelin was between his shoulders" [[1 Samuel 17:6]]. This sole occurrence is crucial for understanding its contextual significance. In [[1 Samuel 17]], the detailed enumeration of Goliath's armor (including his bronze helmet, scale armor, and bronze greaves) serves to underscore his immense physical power and the overwhelming threat he posed to the Israelite army. The greaves, as part of this formidable panoply, emphasize his complete encasement in protective gear, designed to make him impervious to attack. The mention of "bronze greaves" highlights the heavy, durable nature of his defensive equipment, further accentuating the humanly insurmountable challenge he presented to Israel.
### Related Words & Concepts
As noted, מִצְחָה (mitschâh, `{{H4697}}`) is etymologically linked to מֵצַח (metzach, `{{H4696}}`), "forehead," suggesting a prominent or projecting part. Beyond this direct linguistic connection, מִצְחָה falls within the broader semantic field of military equipment and protective gear. Other related terms describing armor in the Hebrew Bible include:
* כּוֹבַע (kowa, `{{H3591}}`), "helmet," also mentioned in [[1 Samuel 17:5]].
* קַשְׂקֶשֶׁת (qasqeset, `{{H7191}}`), "scale armor," also found in [[1 Samuel 17:5]], describing Goliath's coat of mail.
* שִׁרְיוֹן (shiryon, `{{H7983}}`), a more general term for "coat of mail" or "breastplate."
* מָגֵן (magen, `{{H4043}}`) and צִנָּה (tsinah, `{{H6791}}`), referring to different types of "shields."
The concept of armor, though represented by various terms, consistently points to human attempts at self-preservation and the projection of power in warfare.
### Theological Significance
The singular appearance of מִצְחָה (mitschâh, `{{H4697}}`) in the description of Goliath's armor carries profound theological significance. Goliath's greaves, along with his entire suit of armor, represent the pinnacle of human military might and self-reliance. They symbolize the world's reliance on physical strength, technological superiority, and intimidation. In the narrative of [[1 Samuel 17]], this human strength is starkly contrasted with the humble, divinely empowered faith of David. Despite Goliath's complete protection, including his bronze greaves, he is ultimately vulnerable to the seemingly insignificant weapon of a shepherd boy who trusts in the Lord of Hosts. This highlights a central biblical theme: God's sovereignty over human power, and His ability to achieve victory through seemingly weak instruments, thereby demonstrating that "the battle is the Lord's" [[1 Samuel 17:47]]. The greaves, intended to protect, ultimately prove futile against the divine purpose, serving as a powerful testament to the triumph of faith over flesh.
### Summary
The Hebrew word מִצְחָה (mitschâh, {{H4697}}`) precisely denotes "greaves," a shinpiece of armor, and is found exclusively in the plural form. Its sole biblical occurrence in [[1 Samuel 17:6]] is within the detailed description of Goliath's formidable, bronze-clad appearance. This specific piece of armor, along with Goliath's entire panoply, serves as a potent symbol of human strength, military prowess, and self-reliance. The narrative, however, dramatically subverts this symbol, demonstrating that such earthly might is utterly ineffectual against the sovereign power of YHWH, as manifested through David's faith. Thus, מִצְחָה, though a technical term for armor, contributes significantly to the theological message of divine victory over overwhelming human opposition.
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