### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Mitsrîy**, represented by `{{H4713}}`, identifies a person as an **Egyptian**, an inhabitant of Mitsrajim. It is derived from `{{H4714}}` Mitsrayim, the name for Egypt. The term appears **30 times** across **25 unique verses**, highlighting its role in describing national and individual identities throughout the biblical narrative.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H4713}}` is used to identify key individuals and groups. Hagar, the handmaid of Sarai, is consistently identified as **the Egyptian**, a detail central to the lineage of Ishmael ([[Genesis 16:1]], [[Genesis 25:12]]). In Joseph's account, his master Potiphar is an **Egyptian**, and the LORD’s blessing extends to the **Egyptian’s** house for Joseph’s sake [[Genesis 39:5]]. The term also marks points of conflict, as when Moses kills an **Egyptian** for smiting a Hebrew [[Exodus 2:11]], and later when Israel suffered under hard bondage from the **Egyptians** [[Deuteronomy 26:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the identity and role of an **Egyptian**:
* `{{H4714}}` **Mitsrayim** (Egypt, Egyptians, Mizraim): As the source word, this term refers to the land of Egypt itself. The identity of a **Mitsrîy** is inherently tied to this nation.
* `{{H1616}}` **gêr** (stranger): The Israelites are commanded not to abhor an **Egyptian** because they were once a **stranger** in the land of Egypt [[Deuteronomy 23:7]].
* `{{H5650}}` **ʻebed** (servant): This term appears in relation to Egyptians who served others, such as Jarha, the **Egyptian** **servant** of Sheshan [[1 Chronicles 2:34]], and the young **Egyptian** man who was a **servant** to an Amalekite [[1 Samuel 30:13]].
* `{{H2026}}` **hârag** (to kill, slay): This word highlights moments of lethal conflict, such as when Abram feared the **Egyptians** would **kill** him [[Genesis 12:12]] and when Moses **killed** the **Egyptian** [[Exodus 2:14]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{H4713}}` carries several key themes throughout the scriptures.
* **Defining Identity:** The term is a primary descriptor of national origin, distinguishing individuals like Hagar the **Egyptian** [[Genesis 16:1]] and groups like the **Egyptians** who could not eat with the Hebrews [[Genesis 43:32]]. This identity often places them in direct relation or contrast to the people of Israel.
* **Historical Relationship with Israel:** The word traces the evolving relationship between Israel and Egypt. It signifies a place of refuge where Israel was a **stranger** [[Deuteronomy 23:7]], a source of oppression when the **Egyptians** laid hard bondage upon them [[Deuteronomy 26:6]], and a people who were not to be abhorred in later law.
* **Antagonism and Conflict:** In several accounts, the **Egyptian** is an antagonist. This is seen when Moses kills an **Egyptian** taskmaster [[Exodus 2:12]], when Abram fears the **Egyptians** will kill him [[Genesis 12:12]], and in the slaying of a formidable **Egyptian** warrior [[2 Samuel 23:21]].
### Summary
In summary, **Mitsrîy** `{{H4713}}` is more than a simple national identifier. It is a word that defines key figures in Israel's history, from Hagar the handmaid to Potiphar the master. It serves as a marker for the complex relationship between Israel and Egypt, encompassing themes of sojourning, servitude, conflict, and divine law. The term illustrates how a person's origin can be central to their role in the biblical narrative, whether as an oppressor, a recipient of blessing, or simply a neighbor in God's unfolding plan.
TRV