### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mishchâth**, represented by `{{H4893}}`, describes **disfigurement** or **corruption**. Derived from a root meaning to mar, it signifies a ruined or spoiled condition. It is a rare term, appearing only **2 times** in **2 unique verses**, yet it carries significant weight in both legal and prophetic contexts.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical appearances, `{{H4893}}` denotes a state of being spoiled or unacceptable. In the law regarding offerings, a sacrifice from a stranger's hand is rejected because its **corruption** `{{H4893}}` is in it, along with blemishes [[Leviticus 22:25]]. In prophecy, it is used to describe a figure whose visage was so **marred** `{{H4893}}` more than any man that many were astonied at him [[Isaiah 52:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which `{{H4893}}` is used:
* `{{H3971}}` **mʼûwm**: Defined as a **blemish**, blot, or spot. This word is used alongside `{{H4893}}` to describe what makes an offering unacceptable [[Leviticus 22:25]]. It is consistently used to denote the absence of flaws required for sacrifices [[Deuteronomy 17:1]].
* `{{H7227}}` **rab**: Meaning **abundant**, great, or many. It is used in the prophecy of Isaiah to quantify the "many" who were astonished by the marred visage, emphasizing the widespread shock [[Isaiah 52:14]].
* `{{H8074}}` **shâmêm**: Meaning to be **astonied** or desolate. This word describes the reaction of the many who saw the disfigurement of the prophetic figure, highlighting the severity of the state described by `{{H4893}}` [[Isaiah 52:14]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4893}}` is concentrated in two key areas:
* **Ritual Purity:** In Leviticus, the term establishes a standard for what is acceptable to God. The presence of **corruption** `{{H4893}}` or a **blemish** `{{H3971}}` in an offering renders it unfit for presentation, underscoring a divine requirement for perfection and wholeness in worship [[Leviticus 22:25]].
* **Prophetic Suffering:** In Isaiah, the word is used to paint a picture of extreme suffering and humiliation. The figure's appearance is so **marred** that it provokes astonishment, a physical disfigurement beyond normal human experience [[Isaiah 52:14]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4893}}` is a powerful and specific term for corruption and disfigurement. Though used only twice, it defines a critical boundary. In the law, it separates the acceptable from the unacceptable in offerings to God. In prophecy, it vividly portrays a state of being marred so completely that it causes astonishment, pointing to a profound degree of suffering.
TRV