### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **marʼâh**, represented by `{{H4759}}`, describes a **vision** or, causatively, a **mirror**. It appears 12 times across 11 unique verses, encompassing both supernatural revelation and a physical object used for reflection. Its primary use relates to the way God makes Himself and His will known to His people.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H4759}}` is used in two distinct ways. Most frequently, it refers to a divine vision given by God. For example, God spoke to Israel "in the **visions** of the night" [[Genesis 46:2]], and Ezekiel was transported and shown divine things "in the **visions** of God" ([[Ezekiel 8:3]], [[Ezekiel 40:2]]). These encounters could be overwhelming; after seeing a great **vision**, Daniel noted that "there remained no **strength** in me: for my **comeliness** was turned in me into **corruption**" [[Daniel 10:8]]. In a literal sense, `{{H4759}}` is used for the "lookingglasses of the women," which were made of brass and used to construct the laver for the tabernacle [[Exodus 38:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the nature and context of a **vision**:
* `{{H7200}}` **râʼâh** (to see): This is the act of perception itself. The word is used repeatedly in conjunction with a vision, as when Ezekiel says "I **saw** visions of God" [[Ezekiel 1:1]] and Daniel states he alone **saw** the vision [[Daniel 10:7]].
* `{{H2472}}` **chălôwm** (a dream): Often paired with visions as a means of divine communication. In [[Numbers 12:6]], the LORD states He will speak to a prophet in a **dream** and make Himself known in a **vision**.
* `{{H5030}}` **nâbîyʼ** (a prophet): Visions are a primary medium through which God communicates with His chosen messengers. God declares that if a **prophet** is among the people, He will make Himself known to him in a **vision** [[Numbers 12:6]].
* `{{H1823}}` **dᵉmûwth** (similitude): This describes the form or appearance of what is seen within a vision. In one of his visions, Daniel saw "one like the **similitude** of the sons of men" who touched his lips [[Daniel 10:16]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4759}}` is centered on divine revelation and its impact.
* **A Channel for Divine Communication:** Visions serve as a direct method for God to communicate His plans, judgments, and presence to humanity, as seen when God speaks to Jacob [[Genesis 46:2]] or when Samuel receives a **vision** he fears to tell Eli [[1 Samuel 3:15]].
* **The Overwhelming Nature of Revelation:** Experiencing a divine **vision** is often physically and emotionally taxing. Daniel was left with no **strength** `{{H3581}}` and filled with sorrows [[Daniel 10:16]], while those with him who did not see the vision still fled in a great **quaking** `{{H2731}}` [[Daniel 10:7]].
* **Consecration of the Physical:** The use of `{{H4759}}` as "looking glasses" for the tabernacle's laver [[Exodus 38:8]] demonstrates the principle of taking a common object of sight and dedicating it to a holy purpose, bridging the gap between the mundane and the sacred.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4759}}` is a significant term that links the act of seeing with divine revelation. Whether referring to a supernatural **vision** that reveals God's will to a prophet or a physical **looking glass** used in His service, the word underscores the different ways one can perceive and encounter divine reality. It shows that such encounters are powerful, purposeful, and can leave a profound and lasting impact on the recipient.
TRV