### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Mêrôwz**, represented by `{{H4789}}`, refers to **Meroz, a place in Palestine**. Its derivation is uncertain. The name appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, making its sole appearance a significant and cautionary moment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical reference to `{{H4789}}` is found in the Song of Deborah and Barak. In this passage, a curse is pronounced upon the location and its people: "Curse ye **Meroz**, said the angel of the LORD, curse ye bitterly the inhabitants thereof; because they came not to the help of the LORD, to the help of the LORD against the mighty" [[Judges 5:23]]. This pronouncement identifies **Meroz** as a community that failed to act and join with the LORD's forces in a critical battle.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of this singular event is clarified by several related words:
* `{{H779}}` **ʼârar** (to execrate; [idiom] bitterly curse): This word is used twice to emphasize the severity of the judgment against Meroz for its inaction.
* `{{H5833}}` **ʻezrâh** (aid; help): This is what the people of Meroz withheld. Their failure to come to the **help** of the LORD is the specific reason given for the curse.
* `{{H3427}}` **yâshab** (to dwell; inhabitant): This identifies the target of the curse, extending it beyond the place itself to the **inhabitants** who failed to respond to the call for aid.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4789}}` is derived entirely from its role in this one passage. It serves as a powerful biblical illustration of several principles.
* **Judgment for Omission:** The curse on **Meroz** is notable because it is for a sin of inaction. The inhabitants (`{{H3427}}`) are condemned not for what they did, but for what they failed to do when called upon to provide help (`{{H5833}}`).
* **The Mandate to Act:** The account establishes a clear expectation that God's people are to actively participate in His battles. Neutrality or refusal to come to the aid of the LORD (`{{H3068}}`) is treated as a grave offense worthy of a bitter curse (`{{H779}}`).
* **Divine Authority:** The curse is delivered by the angel (`{{H4397}}`) of the LORD (`{{H3068}}`), underscoring that this is not a human grievance but a divine verdict against those who shrink from their duty.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4789}}` is more than just an obscure place name. It is immortalized in scripture as a symbol of the grave consequences of passivity and failing to stand with the LORD. Its solitary appearance in the Bible serves as a focused and potent warning that inaction in the face of a divine call carries a heavy price.
TRV