The Hebrew word mârâʼ, represented by H4754, is a primitive root with a core meaning of rebellion. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. Its definition encompasses the ideas of being filthy, to lift up self, or to lash oneself with wings, as an ostrich does when running.
In its biblical usage, H4754 conveys two distinct concepts. In Zephaniah, it describes the moral state of a city, which is declared filthy and polluted, earning a "Woe" for its oppressive character Zephaniah 3:1. In contrast, the book of Job uses the term to describe the physical action of an ostrich that lifteth up herself on high, an act of pride that is immediately followed by her scorning the horse and its rider Job 39:18.
Several related words provide context for the meanings of H4754:
- H1945 hôwy (Woe): This word, defined as "oh!; ah, alas, ho, O, woe," introduces the judgment upon the "filthy" city in Zephaniah 3:1, setting a tone of condemnation.
- H1351 gâʼal (polluted): Meaning "to soil or (figuratively) desecrate; defile, pollute, stain," this term appears alongside H4754 to emphasize the profound impurity of the city Zephaniah 3:1.
- H3238 yânâh (oppressing): This root means "to rage or be violent; by implication, to suppress, to maltreat." It describes the behavior of the rebellious city that is called filthy Zephaniah 3:1.
- H7832 sâchaq (scorneth): Defined as "to laugh... deride, have in derision... mock... scorn," this word captures the attitude of the ostrich immediately after she "lifteth up herself" Job 39:18.
The theological weight of H4754 is centered on the concept of rebellion against a proper order.
- Rebellious Defilement: In Zephaniah, being filthy is not merely a physical state but a spiritual one. It is a form of rebellion linked directly to being polluted and oppressive, which invites divine judgment Zephaniah 3:1.
- Prideful Self-Exaltation: The imagery in Job connects the act to "lift up self" with an attitude of scorn. This illustrates how prideful rebellion leads one to look down upon and deride others, as the ostrich scorns the horse and rider Job 39:18.
In summary, H4754 is a rare but illustrative word. Though its applications in scripture seem different—describing a morally filthy city and an ostrich that lifteth up itself—both point to the root definition "to rebel." Whether through moral pollution or prideful action, the word captures a sense of defiant opposition to divine and natural order.
TRV