### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mishgeh**, represented by `{{H4870}}`, is derived from the root שָׁגָה and denotes **an error; oversight**. Its usage in scripture is highly specific, as it appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**. This rarity highlights its precise application to the concept of a mistake or an unintentional fault.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole biblical appearance of `{{H4870}}` is in [[Genesis 43:12]], where it is used in a practical context concerning commerce and integrity. The instruction is given to "take double money" and return the money previously found in the sacks, with the possibility that its presence "was an **oversight**." The word clarifies that the returned money is not an admission of theft but a measure to correct a potential, simple error.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{H4870}}` is further defined by the words it appears with in [[Genesis 43:12]]:
* `{{H3947}}` **lâqach** (to take): This primitive root has a wide range of applications, including to buy, fetch, or receive. In this verse, it frames the action of taking the funds needed to rectify the potential **oversight**. It is also used in scripture to describe God's sovereign action, as in "the LORD hath **taken away**" [[Job 1:21]].
* `{{H3701}}` **keçeph** (money): This word, meaning silver or money, is the subject of the **oversight**. Its proper handling is central to the narrative at this point. The term is used broadly for currency, such as when the Lord invites the thirsty to "buy and eat... without **money** and without price" [[Isaiah 55:1]].
* `{{H7725}}` **shûwb** (to turn back... return): Used twice in the verse as "brought again" and "carry it again," this word emphasizes the act of restoration required to correct the **oversight**. The concept of returning is also used theologically, as in the call for the wicked to "**return** unto the LORD" [[Isaiah 55:7]].
### Theological Significance
While `{{H4870}}` itself appears in a non-theological setting, its context provides insight into principles of integrity and restoration.
* **Presumption of Error:** The use of **oversight** in [[Genesis 43:12]] demonstrates a crucial principle of assuming a mistake rather than malicious intent. The response is not accusation but a proactive step to rectify a potential error.
* **Action of Restoration:** The connection to `{{H7725}}`, **shûwb**, links the idea of an **oversight** directly to the need to "turn back" or restore what was misplaced. This mirrors the significant theological use of `shûwb` for repentance and returning to God, as seen in His promise to "bring them **again** to their folds" [[Jeremiah 23:3]].
* **Rightful Taking:** The word **lâqach** `{{H3947}}` ("to take") is used here for a corrective purpose, in contrast to its use in contexts of judgment or taking what is not one's own. God is described as one who "taketh not reward" [[Deuteronomy 10:17]], underscoring a divine standard of justice that provides a backdrop for handling human errors.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4870}}` provides the specific biblical term for an **oversight** or an **error**. Though it appears only once, its placement in [[Genesis 43:12]] offers a clear and practical illustration of the word's meaning. It functions within a narrative of commercial transaction to describe a possible mistake with money, prompting an act of integrity to resolve it. The surrounding words, particularly those for "return" and "take," anchor the concept of correcting an **oversight** in the broader biblical themes of restoration and righteous action.
TRV