### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mirzach**, represented by `{{H4797}}`, is defined as a cry, or by extension, a revel or **banquet**. Its meaning is derived from an unused root word signifying a scream. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** within the biblical text.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H4797}}` is in [[Amos 6:7]], within a prophecy of judgment. The verse states, "Therefore now shall they go captive with the first that go captive, and the **banquet** of them that stretched themselves shall be removed." Here, the **banquet** symbolizes the luxurious and self-indulgent revelry of those who are complacent. The term is not used to describe a joyful or blessed feast, but rather a scene of excess that is about to be brought to an end through divine judgment and exile.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of `{{H4797}}` is sharpened by the words surrounding it in its only context:
* `{{H1540}}` **gâlâh**: This word for going "captive" or into "exile" establishes the consequence for the revelers. Its primary meaning is to denude or strip, implying a disgraceful removal [[Amos 6:7]]. The same word is used figuratively for when God makes something known, as when He "revealed" the glory of the LORD [[Isaiah 40:5]].
* `{{H5493}}` **çûwr**: This root means "to turn off" or "**remove**." It describes the direct action taken against the banquet, signifying its complete cessation [[Amos 6:7]]. This same word is used to describe putting away idols [[1 Samuel 7:3]] and the promise that God will "take away" the stony heart [[Ezekiel 36:26]].
* `{{H5628}}` **çârach**: This verb, meaning "to extend" or "**stretch self**," describes the posture of the people at the banquet. It implies an excessive and leisurely indulgence, which is further detailed in a preceding verse describing those who "stretch themselves upon their couches" [[Amos 6:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4797}}` is concentrated in its singular, powerful use as a symbol of warning.
* **Judgment on Indulgence:** The **banquet** is presented as the epitome of a complacent and luxurious lifestyle. Its forceful removal illustrates the theme of divine judgment against such behavior [[Amos 6:7]].
* **The End of Complacent Feasting:** The context in Amos links the **banquet** to those who "stretch themselves" in ease [[Amos 6:4]]. The promise that this revelry "shall be removed" `{{H5493}}` serves as a stark reminder that worldly and sinful pleasures are transient and will be terminated by God.
* **Prophetic Warning of Exile:** The removal of the **banquet** is a direct consequence of the people going into captivity `{{H1540}}`. The word thus functions within a prophetic announcement, where a tangible, social activity becomes a symbol for the impending national punishment of exile.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4797}}` **mirzach** is a highly specific term whose entire biblical meaning is defined by its context in [[Amos 6:7]]. It does not represent a simple meal but a "banquet" of indulgent revelry that provokes divine judgment. The word serves as a powerful symbol of the kind of worldly excess that God promises to "remove," tying sinful luxury directly to the consequence of exile. It demonstrates how a word used only once can carry significant theological weight, encapsulating a warning against complacency and the fleeting nature of godless pleasure.
TRV