The Hebrew word mishlôwach, represented by H4916, is derived from the root word for "to send" and carries a dual meaning of either a favorable presentation or an unfavorable seizure. It appears 10 times in 10 unique verses and can refer to a "sending out," a business to be discharged, or the act of laying or putting one's hand to an enterprise.
In Scripture, the use of H4916 illustrates the direct consequences of obedience or disobedience. The phrase "all that thou settest thine hand unto" is frequently used in Deuteronomy to describe the undertakings that will be met with either God's blessing for obedience Deuteronomy 28:8 or His curse for forsaking Him Deuteronomy 28:20. In a favorable context, it is associated with rejoicing before the Lord in the prosperity He provides Deuteronomy 12:7. The word also describes acts of celebration and generosity, such as the "sending of portions" during the festival established in the book of Esther (Esther 9:19, Esther 9:22). Conversely, it can signify military conquest and seizure, as when Israel is prophesied to "lay their hand upon Edom and Moab" Isaiah 11:14.
Several related words help clarify the scope of H4916:
- H7971 shâlach (to send away, for, or out): As the root of H4916, this word provides the foundational concept of "sending," which can be applied to business, gifts, or judgment.
- H1293 Bᵉrâkâh (blessing): This is the favorable outcome connected to the work of one's hands. The Lord commands a blessing upon the storehouses and "in all that thou settest thine hand unto" Deuteronomy 28:8.
- H3994 mᵉʼêrâh (curse): This represents the unfavorable result of disobedience. God warns He will send a curse upon "all that thou settest thine hand unto" Deuteronomy 28:20.
- H4639 maʻăseh (business, deed, do(-ing), labor): This term for "works" or "doings" is used in parallel with H4916 to describe the human activities that God will either bless or judge Deuteronomy 15:10.
The theological significance of H4916 is centered on the principle of divine response to human action.
- The Outcome of Enterprise: The word demonstrates that human endeavors are not independent of God. The act of "setting one's hand" to a task invites a direct response from God, which can be either a favorable blessing or an unfavorable curse (Deuteronomy 28:8, Deuteronomy 28:20).
- The Mandate for Generosity: Its use in the context of feasting and giving highlights a divine approval of celebration and charity. The "sending" of gifts to one another and to the poor is presented as a joyful and good act Esther 9:22.
- Sovereignty in Labor: Whether applied to agriculture, such as the "sending forth of oxen" Isaiah 7:25, or to general business, the word underscores that the prosperity of labor is a result of God's blessing for righteous living, such as not charging interest to a brother Deuteronomy 23:20.
In summary, H4916 is a dynamic term that extends beyond the simple meaning of "sending." It encompasses the full scope of human undertakings, from business and agriculture to conquest and charity. Crucially, it links these tangible actions to their spiritual consequences, illustrating that the work of one's hands will be met with a corresponding blessing or curse from God.
TRV