### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mishṭâr**, represented by `{{H4896}}`, means **jurisdiction** or **dominion**. It is a very specific term that appears only **1 times** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible, making its single appearance highly significant. Its meaning is derived from the concept of established rule and authority.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H4896}}` is found in the book of Job, where God challenges Job from the whirlwind. God asks Job, "Knowest thou the ordinances of heaven? canst thou set the **dominion** thereof in the earth?" [[Job 38:33]]. In this context, **dominion** refers to the authority and governing influence that the laws of heaven exert over the earth, a power that God implies is His alone to command.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of `{{H4896}}` is illuminated by the words surrounding it in its single biblical context:
* `{{H2708}}` **chuqqâh** (ordinances): Defined as an enactment or statute, this word refers to the fixed, appointed laws of heaven. The **dominion** of `{{H4896}}` is the active rule of these ordinances.
* `{{H7760}}` **sûwm** (set): This verb means to put, appoint, or ordain. The question of whether Job can "set" this dominion challenges his ability to establish or enforce such a cosmic jurisdiction.
* `{{H8064}}` **shâmayim** (heaven): The source of the ordinances and dominion, defined as the sky or heavens. This points to the divine and lofty origin of the authority being described.
* `{{H776}}` **ʼerets** (earth): This is the realm where the dominion of heaven is to be applied, emphasizing the scope of God's rule over all creation.
* `{{H3045}}` **yâdaʻ** (knowest): Meaning to know or comprehend, this word frames the entire question, emphasizing the limits of human understanding concerning God's divine jurisdiction.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4896}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful appearance.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The term is used in a rhetorical question to establish God's absolute and exclusive jurisdiction over the cosmos. The question to Job makes it clear that only God has the power to set the dominion of the heavens over the earth [[Job 38:33]].
* **Established Cosmic Order:** By linking **dominion** to the "ordinances of heaven" `{{H2708}}`, the verse portrays a universe governed by divine law and structure, not by chance. God's jurisdiction is the force that maintains this order.
* **Humanity's Limited Authority:** The passage uses `{{H4896}}` to highlight the vast difference between God's authority and man's. It underscores that humanity cannot create, comprehend, or command the fundamental laws that govern creation.
### Summary
In summary, while appearing only once, `{{H4896}}` **mishṭâr** carries immense theological significance. It is used exclusively to describe God's absolute jurisdiction over the created order. Its placement in [[Job 38:33]] serves as a profound statement on divine sovereignty, the structured nature of the cosmos, and the ultimate inability of humanity to wield the power that belongs to God alone.
TRV