### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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.
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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