### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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