### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mitsʻâr**, represented by `{{H4705}}`, denotes something **petty (in size or number)**, and can be used adverbially to mean a **short (time)** or **little while**. It appears 5 times across 4 verses, consistently pointing to concepts of smallness, whether in quantity, dimension, or duration.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its scriptural occurrences, `{{H4705}}` is used to describe various forms of smallness. It can refer to a humble start, where a **small** beginning is contrasted with a future of great increase [[Job 8:7]]. It is also used to describe the size of an armed force, where a **small** company of men from the Syrian army came against a great host [[2 Chronicles 24:24]]. The word can signify a brief period of time, as when the people of God's holiness possessed the sanctuary for but a **little while** [[Isaiah 63:18]]. Finally, it describes physical size, as Lot pleads to escape to a city precisely because it is a **little one** [[Genesis 19:20]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and context of `{{H4705}}`:
* `{{H7225}}` **rêʼshîyth** (beginning): This word is directly contrasted with `{{H4705}}` in the context of a **small** beginning that is destined for a greater future [[Job 8:7]].
* `{{H319}}` **ʼachărîyth** (latter end): As the counterpart to a beginning, this term highlights the outcome that follows a **small** start, which in one case is promised to be a great increase [[Job 8:7]].
* `{{H7230}}` **rôb** (great): This word for abundance or multitude stands in direct opposition to `{{H4705}}`. In [[2 Chronicles 24:24]], the LORD `{{H3068}}` delivers a **great** host into the hands of a **small** company.
* `{{H5892}}` **ʻîyr** (city): This is the object described as a **little one** in Lot's plea for a place of refuge, showing a literal application of `{{H4705}}` to a physical location [[Genesis 19:20]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4705}}` is seen in its use within contexts of divine power and human perspective.
* **Divine Sovereignty over Strength:** The word underscores that God's power is not contingent on numbers. The LORD `{{H3068}}` can use a **small** company of men to execute judgment and deliver a very great host into their hand [[2 Chronicles 24:24]].
* **Promise in Humility:** A **small** beginning does not preclude a greatly increased latter end, illustrating a principle of faith and future hope [[Job 8:7]].
* **Mercy in Insignificance:** The word is used in a plea for life, where a **little one** city is seen as a viable place to escape and preserve one's soul `{{H5315}}`, showing that even what is considered insignificant can serve as a means of deliverance [[Genesis 19:20]].
* **Transience of Human Endeavor:** The description of possessing the sanctuary for only a **little while** highlights the fleeting nature of human control, even over holy things, when faced with adversaries [[Isaiah 63:18]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4705}}` is more than a simple descriptor of size. It is a word that functions within narratives of contrast, highlighting the difference between small beginnings and great ends, and between human weakness and divine strength. It illustrates that in God's economy, the **small**, the **few**, and the **brief** can all play significant roles in the unfolding of His sovereign judgments and promises.
TRV