The Hebrew word mâtsats, represented by H4711, is a primitive root defined as to suck; milk. This specific term is quite rare, appearing only 1 times in 1 unique verses in the entirety of the Bible. Its singular use provides a focused and powerful image of drawing out sustenance to the point of delight.
The sole appearance of H4711 is in Isaiah 66:11, where it is used to describe a profound experience of comfort and satisfaction. The verse speaks of being nourished by Jerusalem's restoration, inviting believers to "milk out" and be "delighted with the abundance of her glory." The act of milking out is directly linked with partaking in divine consolations and glory, painting a picture of complete and joyous fulfillment provided by God.
Several words used alongside H4711 in its only context help to clarify its meaning:
- H3243 yânaq (to suck): This word appears in the same verse and carries a similar meaning. It is frequently used in the context of infants and nursing, as seen with "sucklings" Psalms 8:2 and "nursing mothers" Isaiah 49:23, emphasizing a theme of foundational nourishment.
- H7646 sâbaʻ (to sate, i.e. fill to satisfaction): This term describes the result of the action in Isaiah 66:11. It signifies being filled to satisfaction, whether it is the longing soul Psalms 107:9 or being filled with plenty Joel 2:26.
- H7699 shad (the breast): This word identifies the source of the nourishment. It is used for the "breasts of her consolations" in Isaiah 66:11 and is associated with blessing and life, as in the "blessings of the breasts" Genesis 49:25.
The theological weight of H4711 is concentrated in its single, vivid application.
- Nurturing Comfort: The act of "milking out" is from the "breasts of her consolations" Isaiah 66:11. This connects the word to the theme of receiving deep, maternal comfort and solace, as promised by God to his people. The source of this comfort is defined as "consolations" H8575.
- Delighting in Abundance: The word is paired with being "delighted" H6026 with "abundance" H2123. This shows that the nourishment received is not for mere survival but for immense joy and delight, a theme echoed in the call to "delight thyself also in the LORD" Psalms 37:4.
- Partaking in Glory: Believers are to "milk out" from the "abundance of her glory" Isaiah 66:11. The source of this satisfaction is divine "glory" H3519, linking the act to partaking in God's own splendor and honor, which He bestows upon His people in their restoration Isaiah 60:1.
In summary, while H4711 is used only once, its meaning is significant. It is more than a physical term for drawing milk; it is a powerful metaphor for the profound spiritual nourishment and satisfaction that comes from God's promised restoration. Its appearance in Isaiah 66:11 vividly illustrates the depth of comfort, the delight of abundance, and the privilege of partaking in the divine glory offered to God's people.
TRV