The Hebrew word massôʼ, represented by H4856, denotes partiality or respect. It is derived from a root meaning "a lifting up." This term is highly specific, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible. Its singular use highlights a precise concept within the context of divine justice.
The sole appearance of H4856 is in 2 Chronicles 19:7, which states that with God there is "no iniquity... nor respect of persons, nor taking of gifts." The word is used to describe a characteristic that is explicitly absent in God. This verse commands listeners to act with caution and righteousness, using the perfect nature of God as the ultimate standard for their own conduct in judgment.
The context of H4856 in 2 Chronicles 19:7 links it directly to other terms that define justice and injustice:
- H5766 ʻevel (iniquity): This word signifies moral evil and perverseness. Its absence in God, mentioned just before the lack of partiality, establishes the foundation of His perfect character.
- H4727 miqqâch (taking): This term refers to the act of reception, used here in the context of accepting a bribe. It is listed alongside H4856 as an action incompatible with divine justice.
- H7810 shachad (gift): This word for a bribe or reward specifies what should not be taken. It is explicitly forbidden in contexts of judgment because it perverts righteousness Deuteronomy 16:19.
- H6343 pachad (fear): In contrast to the negative traits, the verse calls for the "fear of the LORD" to be upon the people, positioning reverent dread as the motivation for avoiding partiality and injustice.
The theological weight of H4856 is established by its unique context.
- Divine Impartiality: The word's primary function is to help define the character of God. The declaration that God has no "respect of persons" 2 Chronicles 19:7 is a foundational statement about His absolute and unbiased justice.
- A Standard for Judgment: God's impartiality serves as the divine model for human behavior. The verse uses this attribute to command judges and leaders to act without favoritism, linking righteous human judgment directly to the imitation of God's character.
- Corruption Defined: By being listed with iniquity H5766 and the taking H4727 of gifts H7810, partiality is categorized as a form of corruption that stands in opposition to the law of truth and equity Malachi 2:6.
In summary, H4856 is a precise term for partiality that, despite its single use, carries significant theological importance. Its appearance in 2 Chronicles 19:7 serves to define justice by negation, explaining what God is not in order to establish a clear standard for human righteousness. It powerfully illustrates that divine impartiality is the bedrock upon which human justice must be built.
TRV