### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mishbâr**, represented by `{{H4867}}`, refers to a **breaker (of the sea)**, **billow**, or **wave**. Derived from a root meaning to break, it appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses**. This term is used to depict the powerful and often overwhelming force of large bodies of water.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In Scripture, `{{H4867}}` consistently describes immense, overwhelming forces. It is used by writers to express feelings of being completely submerged by trial and affliction, as seen in the psalmist's cry, "all thy **waves** and thy billows are gone over me" ([[Psalms 42:7]]; see also [[Jonah 2:3]]). These waves are sometimes portrayed as a direct instrument of God's wrath [[Psalms 88:7]]. The term also functions as a powerful metaphor for mortal peril, as in "the **waves** of death compassed me" [[2 Samuel 22:5]]. However, the might of these waves is ultimately subject to God's greater power, as the LORD is described as "mightier than the mighty **waves** of the sea" [[Psalms 93:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illustrate the context of immense water and power:
* `{{H1530}}` **gal** (billow, wave): This word is used in parallel with `{{H4867}}` to describe the sea's powerful motion, such as when the psalmist laments that "all thy waves and thy **billows** are gone over me" [[Psalms 42:7]].
* `{{H4194}}` **mâveth** (death): This term is directly linked to `{{H4867}}` to create a vivid metaphor for overwhelming, life-threatening danger, as seen in the phrase "the waves of **death**" [[2 Samuel 22:5]].
* `{{H8415}}` **tᵉhôwm** (deep, abyss): This word for the vast, surging mass of water often serves as the source of the waves. It is used to set the scene for the overwhelming waters, as in "**Deep** calleth unto **deep**... all thy waves and thy billows are gone over me" [[Psalms 42:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4867}}` lies in its depiction of overwhelming forces and God's sovereignty over them.
* **Sovereign Affliction:** The waves are often described as belonging to God ("thy waves"), portraying hardship and suffering not as random events but as something permitted or directed by a sovereign Lord for His purposes ([[Psalms 88:7]], [[Jonah 2:3]]).
* **Metaphor for Peril:** The term is used metaphorically to represent the most extreme dangers a person can face, especially the overwhelming power of **death** [[2 Samuel 22:5]]. It captures the feeling of being helplessly overcome by circumstances.
* **God's Supreme Power:** Despite the terror inspired by the mighty waves, they serve to highlight God's even greater power. The declaration that the LORD is mightier than the waves of the sea serves as a statement of faith in His ultimate control over chaos and destruction [[Psalms 93:4]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4867}}` is a specific and potent term for a "breaker" or "wave." Though used sparingly, it powerfully conveys a sense of being overwhelmed by forces beyond human control. It functions both literally, to describe the sea's might, and metaphorically, to illustrate profound affliction and the nearness of death. Ultimately, the use of **mishbâr** in scripture serves to magnify the supreme authority and power of God, who rules over even the most chaotic and fearsome elements of creation.
TRV