perhaps from רָכַךְ; softness, i.e. (figuratively) fear; faintness.
Transliteration:môrek
Pronunciation:mo'-rek
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term מֹרֶךְ (môrek, `{{H4816}}`) derives from the root רָכַךְ (rakak, `{{H7390}}`), which fundamentally conveys the idea of "softness" or "tenderness." When applied to the physical realm, this root can describe something pliant or yielding. However, in the case of מֹרֶךְ, its semantic range extends beyond the literal to encompass a figurative sense, particularly relating to the human spirit or disposition. Thus, מֹרֶךְ signifies a "softness" of heart that manifests as "faintness," "timidity," or "fear." It denotes a lack of firmness, resolve, or courage, implying a state of weakness or vulnerability in the face of perceived threats.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word מֹרֶךְ (môrek, `{{H4816}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, found in the book of Leviticus:
* **[[Leviticus 26:36]]**: "And as for those of you who are left, I will send faintness (מֹרֶךְ) into their hearts in the lands of their enemies; the sound of a driven leaf shall put them to flight, and they shall flee as one flees from a sword, and fall when there is no pursuer."
This singular occurrence is profoundly significant, as it is situated within the solemn pronouncements of covenant blessings and curses in [[Leviticus 26]]. The context describes the severe consequences of Israel's disobedience and rebellion against God's commandments. The "faintness" (מֹרֶךְ) here is not merely a natural emotional state but a divinely inflicted judgment. It represents a debilitating, irrational fear that strips the people of their courage and resilience. The imagery of being put to flight by "the sound of a driven leaf" powerfully conveys the utter psychological and spiritual collapse that accompanies this judgment. This "softness of heart" renders them utterly vulnerable, fleeing from imaginary threats, highlighting their complete lack of inner fortitude when God's favor is withdrawn.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the verbal root רָכַךְ (rakak, `{{H7390}}`), from which מֹרֶךְ (môrek, `{{H4816}}`) is derived. This root itself can mean "to be soft, tender, weak, or timid." Other Hebrew terms that express various facets of fear, dread, or dismay, though distinct in nuance, contribute to the broader semantic field:
* יִרְאָה (yir'ah, `{{H3372}}`): General fear, often with an element of reverence.
* פַּחַד (pachad, `{{H6343}}`): Dread, terror, often associated with a sudden onset.
* חֲרָדָה (charadah, `{{H2729}}`): Trembling, anxiety, often physical manifestation of fear.
* חַתַּת (chattath, `{{H2849}}`): Terror, dismay, often leading to a loss of courage.
In contrast to מֹרֶךְ, concepts like strength, courage, boldness, and steadfastness represent the antithesis of this "faintness." The absence of מֹרֶךְ would imply a heart firm and resolute, trusting in divine provision rather than succumbing to fear.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of מֹרֶךְ (môrek, `{{H4816}}`) is profound, particularly in its singular appearance within [[Leviticus 26:36]]. It serves as a stark illustration of divine judgment for covenant unfaithfulness. The "faintness" of heart is not a mere human weakness but a direct consequence of God's punitive hand. It signifies:
1. **Divine Retribution**: God actively "sends" this faintness, indicating His sovereignty over human emotions and the internal state of His people. It is a spiritual and psychological affliction designed to humble and punish.
2. **Loss of Divine Protection**: When Israel disobeys, the protective hand of God is withdrawn, leading to a profound sense of insecurity and vulnerability. The natural courage and resilience that might otherwise exist are eroded, replaced by an irrational, debilitating fear.
3. **Spiritual Decay**: The "softness" of heart described by מֹרֶךְ speaks to a deeper spiritual decay. It is a sign of a broken relationship with God, where the inner fortitude derived from faith and obedience has vanished. The people become susceptible to the slightest threat, mirroring their spiritual fragility.
4. **Emphasizing Dependence on God**: By depicting such extreme helplessness, the word underscores the absolute dependence of God's people on His favor and strength. Without Him, even the most formidable nation can be reduced to a terrified, fleeing remnant by the rustle of a leaf.
### Summary
The Hebrew word מֹרֶךְ (môrek, `{{H4816}}`) denotes a profound "softness" or "faintness" of heart, signifying a debilitating fear and lack of courage. Its singular, yet powerful, occurrence in [[Leviticus 26:36]] places it within the context of divine judgment. As a consequence of covenant disobedience, God sends this "faintness" into the hearts of His people, rendering them utterly vulnerable and terrified by even the most insignificant stimuli. This word profoundly illustrates the theological principle that rebellion against God leads not only to external calamity but also to an internal spiritual and psychological collapse, highlighting humanity's absolute reliance on divine strength and favor for true security and courage.
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