### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mirmâç**, represented by `{{H4823}}`, refers to abasement and the act of being **trodden down** or under foot. It is derived from the root word for treading. Appearing **7 times** in **7 unique verses**, `{{H4823}}` consistently conveys a state of being conquered, desecrated, or brought to a low state.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H4823}}` most often illustrates divine judgment or the consequences of sin. God gives a charge to an invading nation to **tread them down** like the mire of the streets [[Isaiah 10:6]]. Similarly, an enemy who mockingly asks, "Where is the LORD thy God?" is promised a future where she will be **trodden down** as the mire of the streets [[Micah 7:10]]. The term also describes the desecration of holy things, as when a vision reveals the sanctuary and the host are given to be **trodden under foot** due to transgression [[Daniel 8:13]]. In a parable, God’s vineyard is to be **trodden down** after its protective wall is broken [[Isaiah 5:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context and meaning of `{{H4823}}`:
* `{{H2916}}` **ṭîyṭ** (mire): This word, along with `{{H2563}}` **chômer** (mire), is frequently paired with `{{H4823}}` to create a powerful image of complete defeat and humiliation, as those judged are trodden down into the mud of the streets ([[Micah 7:10]], [[Isaiah 10:6]]).
* `{{H341}}` **ʼôyêb** (enemy): The act of being trodden down is often the fate of an adversary. In [[Micah 7:10]], it is the **enemy** who will be seen and then trodden down, signifying a reversal of power and divine vindication.
* `{{H6588}}` **peshaʻ** (transgression): The state of being trodden down is explicitly linked to sin. The sanctuary is subjected to this fate because of the **transgression** of desolation [[Daniel 8:13]].
* `{{H7272}}` **regel** (foot): This word identifies the literal instrument of the action. In Ezekiel, the flock is forced to eat what has been **trodden** with the feet of the selfish shepherds, highlighting how their actions spoil what is for others [[Ezekiel 34:19]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4823}}` is significant, primarily illustrating concepts of divine justice and accountability.
* **Divine Judgment:** To be "trodden down" is a direct and forceful act of God's judgment. He uses an "overflowing scourge" to tread down those in a covenant with death [[Isaiah 28:18]], and he sends a nation to execute this judgment on a hypocritical people [[Isaiah 10:6]].
* **Consequence of Unfaithfulness:** The word serves as a stark warning about the consequences of turning from God. Israel, as a vineyard, is **trodden down** after its protective hedge is removed by God [[Isaiah 5:5]]. This connects loss of divine protection directly to this state of abasement.
* **Humiliation and Desecration:** The image of being trodden under foot represents the ultimate state of humbling. It is applied to proud enemies [[Micah 7:10]] as well as sacred spaces like the sanctuary when they are defiled by transgression [[Daniel 8:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4823}}` is a powerful term that signifies more than physical trampling. It is a biblical metaphor for subjugation, abasement, and divine judgment. Whether describing an enemy brought low, a nation punished for its sin, or a holy place desecrated, **mirmâç** conveys a state of utter ruin and humiliation, often visualized as being crushed into the mire of the streets.
TRV