The Hebrew word marbeh, represented by H4766, is derived from a root meaning to increase. Though it appears only 2 times in 2 unique verses, it carries a significant meaning of increase or greatness. Its definition encompasses the idea of something becoming larger, whether in quantity, as in "great," or in scope and duration, as in "increase."
The two uses of H4766 in scripture highlight its dual application. In Isaiah's prophecy, it describes the boundless nature of the Messiah's kingdom, stating, "Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end" Isaiah 9:7. In a different context, it describes a vast quantity of material goods, where "the prey of a great spoil divided" is made available even to the lame Isaiah 33:23. One use is abstract and eternal, the other is concrete and immediate.
Several related words provide context for the concept of increase and greatness:
- H4951 misrâh (government): The "increase" in Isaiah 9:7 is directly applied to this word, which means "empire; government." This eternal growth is a quality of the Messiah's future reign Isaiah 9:6.
- H7965 shâlôwm (peace): Paired with government, the "increase" also applies to peace, a term signifying welfare, health, and prosperity. The Messiah is called the "Prince of Peace" Isaiah 9:6.
- H7998 shâlâl (spoil): In Isaiah 33:23, the word for "great" H4766 modifies spoil, which means "booty; prey, spoil," emphasizing the sheer volume of the plunder.
- H7093 qêts (end): This word, meaning "an extremity... end," is used in Isaiah 9:7 to state what the increase of government and peace will not have, highlighting the unending nature of the Messiah's kingdom.
The theological weight of H4766 is focused on God's limitless power and purpose.
- Endless Messianic Reign: The word is central to the prophecy of the Messiah's eternal kingdom. The "increase" of his government and peace is promised to have "no end," signifying a perpetually growing and boundless reign of justice and righteousness Isaiah 9:7. This will be performed by "The zeal of the LORD of hosts" Isaiah 9:7.
- Abundant Provision and Justice: The depiction of a "great spoil" illustrates God's ability to provide overwhelmingly for His people, even for the most vulnerable, described as "the lame" Isaiah 33:23. This act of dividing a great spoil demonstrates a sudden and total reversal of fortune delivered by God.
In summary, H4766 is a concise but potent term. Though rare, its usage in scripture powerfully conveys the idea of immensity. It is applied to both the eternal, ever-expanding nature of the Messiah's peaceful government and to the tangible, overwhelming greatness of a spoil. In both cases, marbeh points to a scale of increase that originates from the power and will of God.
TRV