The Hebrew word mârâq, represented by H4839, is a specific term for broth or soup. It appears 3 times across 3 unique verses in the Bible. The word's definition, "soup (as if a rinsing)," suggests a liquid substance, likely derived from the boiling of meat.
In the biblical narrative, H4839 is used in two distinct contexts. In the book of Judges, Gideon prepares a meal for the angel of God, placing the meat in a basket and the broth in a pot Judges 6:19. He is then instructed to pour out the broth as part of a sacred offering Judges 6:20. Conversely, in Isaiah, the word describes the broth of abominable things, consumed by a rebellious people along with swine's flesh, signifying a state of ritual uncleanness and sin Isaiah 65:4.
Several related words help clarify the context in which broth appears:
- H6564 pârâq (soup): This word is also defined as broth and appears alongside H4839 to describe the "broth of abominable things" in the same verse Isaiah 65:4.
- H1320 bâsâr (flesh): This term for flesh or body is consistently paired with broth. In Gideon's offering, the flesh is presented separately from the broth Judges 6:19.
- H6517 pârûwr (pot): This word identifies the vessel used to hold the broth Gideon prepared for the angel of God Judges 6:19.
- H8210 shâphak (pour out): This verb describes the action performed with the broth as part of Gideon's offering, where he is commanded to pour out the liquid upon a rock Judges 6:20.
The significance of H4839 is tied to its role in ritual and diet.
- Component of an Offering: The broth is a key element in Gideon's offering to the angel of God. The act of pouring it out suggests a liquid libation accompanying the presentation of meat, set apart for a holy purpose Judges 6:20.
- Symbol of Defilement: In Isaiah's prophecy, the broth is explicitly linked to forbidden practices. Consuming it is an act of rebellion against God's law, representing spiritual contamination Isaiah 65:4.
- Paired with Flesh: The word is always used in connection with flesh H1320, highlighting its function as the liquid extract from meat. Its holiness or profanity is determined by the nature of the animal it comes from and the context of its consumption.
In summary, H4839 is a precise term for broth whose meaning is defined entirely by its context. While it appears infrequently, its usage illustrates a stark contrast between the sacred and the profane. It can be a substance prepared for a divine offering, as with Gideon, or a symbol of utter defilement and disobedience, as seen in the condemnation by Isaiah.
TRV