### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mᵉrîyrûwth**, represented by `{{H4814}}`, signifies a profound **bitterness** or **grief**. This specific term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, highlighting its intense and focused meaning.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H4814}}` occurs in a dramatic prophetic command to the prophet Ezekiel. He is instructed to sigh "with the breaking of thy loins; and with **bitterness** sigh before their eyes" [[Ezekiel 21:6]]. In this context, the word does not describe a passive feeling but a required, visible demonstration of extreme anguish. It is an outward expression of the devastating sorrow connected to impending judgment, meant to be seen by the people as a sign.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words found in the context of `{{H4814}}` help clarify its severe nature:
* `{{H584}}` **ʼânach** (to sigh): Defined as to groan or mourn, this word is directly paired with **bitterness** in its only appearance [[Ezekiel 21:6]]. It is consistently used to express deep distress, whether in response to bondage [[Exodus 2:23]], the rule of the wicked [[Proverbs 29:2]], or the consequences of sin [[Lamentations 1:8]].
* `{{H7670}}` **shibrôwn** (breaking): This term denotes a rupture, pang, or destruction. Its use alongside **bitterness** in the phrase "breaking of thy loins" [[Ezekiel 21:6]] emphasizes a physical, body-wracking collapse resulting from overwhelming grief and ruin.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4814}}` is concentrated in its role as a prophetic symbol of divine judgment.
* **Prophetic Grief:** The **bitterness** Ezekiel is commanded to display is not his own personal sorrow but a reflection of the anguish that will result from the coming destruction. It is a tangible sign meant to provoke a response from its audience [[Ezekiel 21:7]].
* **A Physical Response to Crisis:** The word is linked to the physical act of sighing `{{H584}}` and the physical state of "breaking" `{{H7670}}`. This illustrates that the sorrow associated with God's judgment is an all-encompassing experience, affecting heart, spirit, and body [[Ezekiel 21:7]].
* **The Weight of Sin:** The context of sighing and mourning is elsewhere tied directly to the abominations committed in Jerusalem [[Ezekiel 9:4]] and the grievous sins of the city [[Lamentations 1:8]]. Therefore, the **bitterness** `{{H4814}}` represents the ultimate consequence and painful result of such transgressions.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{H4814}}` is used only once, its meaning is powerful and specific. It defines not just sadness, but a consuming **bitterness** and grief that manifests physically. As a prophetic instruction, it serves as a visceral symbol of the devastating sorrow and ruin that accompanies divine judgment upon sin, making it a term of intense emotional and theological significance.
TRV