### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mᵉshûwçâh**, represented by `{{H4882}}`, means **spoilation** or **spoil**. Derived from an unused root meaning to plunder, this term is exceptionally specific, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its singular use highlights a moment of profound theological reflection on the consequences of disobedience.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H4882}}` is in [[Isaiah 42:24]], where it is used in a powerful rhetorical question: "Who gave Jacob for a spoil, and Israel to the robbers?" The verse answers itself, identifying the LORD as the one who allowed this to happen. The reason given is that the people had sinned `{{H2398}}` against Him, refusing to walk `{{H1980}}` in His ways and failing to be obedient `{{H8085}}` to His law `{{H8451}}`. Here, "spoil" is not just material loss, but a state of being given over to plunder as a direct result of turning away from God.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the context of [[Isaiah 42:24]] illuminate the meaning of `{{H4882}}`:
* `{{H4933}}` **mᵉshiççâh** (plunder; booty, spoil): This word is used alongside `{{H4882}}` in its only appearance, reinforcing the theme of plundering. It is also used in prophecies where those who plunder Israel will themselves become spoil [[Jeremiah 30:16]].
* `{{H962}}` **bâzaz** (to plunder): This primitive root provides the action behind the state of being spoiled. In [[Isaiah 42:24]], it is used to describe the "robbers" to whom Israel was given.
* `{{H2398}}` **châṭâʼ** (to sin): This word is crucial as it provides the cause for the spoilation. The act of being given over as spoil is explicitly linked to Israel having sinned against the LORD [[Isaiah 42:24]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4882}}` is concentrated in its single, impactful use, revealing a clear doctrine of divine judgment.
* **Spoilation as Judgment:** The term is not used to describe a random military defeat but a specific, sovereign act of God. It was the LORD who "gave" `{{H5414}}` Jacob to be plundered, framing the event as a direct consequence of covenantal unfaithfulness.
* **The Consequence of Sin:** The reason for the spoilation is explicitly stated as sin `{{H2398}}` and disobedience. The people's refusal to walk `{{H1980}}` in God's ways or obey `{{H8085}}` His law `{{H8451}}` resulted in their being given over to robbers.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** This concept illustrates that nothing, not even the plundering of His own people, happens outside of God's control. The spoilation serves His purposes, in this case, as a corrective punishment for sin.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4882}}` is a rare but potent term. Its single occurrence in Scripture is not incidental but serves as a powerful theological statement. It defines "spoil" not merely as the spoils of war but as a condition of divine judgment enacted upon a people who have sinned and turned away from God's law. The word encapsulates the direct and severe consequences of disobedience within God's sovereign plan.
TRV