### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word mishʻîy (מִשְׁעִי, `{{H4935}}`) is a rare term, appearing only once in the Hebrew Bible. Its etymology is generally traced to the root שָׁעָה (shaʻah, `{{H8159}}`), which primarily means "to gaze, look, regard, turn aside." From this root, mishʻîy likely conveys the sense of something that is "worthy of inspection," "to be looked at," or "regarded with attention." This semantic range naturally extends to qualities that are pleasing to the eye, hence "desirable," "splendid," or "gorgeous." The secondary aspect of the base definition, "to supple," is less directly evident from the primary root meaning of "looking" but might imply a state of being made soft or pliable through careful attention or cultivation, though this is less prominent in its sole biblical context. The primary understanding leans towards visual attractiveness or impressiveness.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole occurrence of mishʻîy (מִשְׁעִי, `{{H4935}}`) is found in the prophetic book of Ezekiel:
* [[Ezekiel 23:6]]: "clothed in blue and purple, governors and commanders, all of them desirable young men, horsemen riding on horses, all of them *mishʻîy*."
In this verse, the prophet Ezekiel describes the Assyrian warriors, whom Oholibah (representing Jerusalem) lusted after. The context is highly condemnatory, depicting Jerusalem's spiritual adultery through its illicit alliances with foreign nations. The word mishʻîy is used in parallel with "desirable young men" (מַחְמַדִּים, makhmdim, `{{H4261}}`), emphasizing the outward allure and splendor of these foreign soldiers. They were visually striking, perhaps well-appointed, strong, or handsome, making them appealing to Oholibah's idolatrous gaze. The term highlights the superficial attractiveness that led Judah astray from her covenant with Yahweh. It describes an external magnificence that masked the spiritual danger and unfaithfulness inherent in such alliances. The KJV's translation "gorgeous" captures this sense of outward splendor and visual appeal effectively.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary linguistic connection for mishʻîy (מִשְׁעִי, `{{H4935}}`) is its root, שָׁעָה (shaʻah, `{{H8159}}`), which signifies "to gaze, look, regard, turn aside." This root frequently appears in contexts where attention is given or withdrawn, whether in approval or disapproval.
Other related concepts in the biblical narrative, particularly in Ezekiel's condemnation of spiritual adultery, include:
* מַחְמַדִּים (makhmdim, `{{H4261}}`): "desirable things/persons," as used in the same verse ([[Ezekiel 23:6]]), reinforcing the idea of alluring qualities.
* זָנָה (zanah, `{{H2181}}`): "to commit fornication, to be unfaithful," the pervasive term for Israel's spiritual unfaithfulness to God, often depicted as prostitution or adultery.
* תָּאֲוָה (ta'avah, `{{H8378}}`): "desire, lust," which describes the illicit cravings that lead God's people astray.
The concept of outward appearance and its deceptive power is a recurring theme in prophetic literature, contrasting with the true spiritual beauty of faithfulness and obedience.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of mishʻîy (מִשְׁעִי, `{{H4935}}`) is deeply embedded in its unique context within Ezekiel 23. It underscores the deceptive allure of worldly power and beauty that enticed God's covenant people into idolatry and political alliances contrary to divine will. The "gorgeous" or "desirable" appearance of the Assyrian warriors, as described by mishʻîy, serves as a potent symbol of the superficial attractions that led Oholibah (Jerusalem) to abandon her spiritual fidelity to Yahweh.
This single occurrence highlights a crucial theological principle: human beings, and particularly God's chosen people, can be swayed by outward splendor and perceived strength, mistaking it for true value or security. The prophet reveals that what appears mishʻîy (gorgeous) in the eyes of the unfaithful is, in God's sight, an object of judgment and a source of spiritual contamination. The word thus contributes to the broader prophetic message of divine jealousy, the consequences of spiritual prostitution, and the call to unwavering devotion to the one true God, rather than being captivated by the fleeting and ultimately destructive "gorgeousness" of the world.
### Summary
The word mishʻîy (מִשְׁעִי, `{{H4935}}`), derived from the root שָׁעָה (shaʻah, `{{H8159}}`) meaning "to gaze" or "to regard," denotes something "worthy of inspection," "desirable," or "gorgeous." Its singular appearance in [[Ezekiel 23:6]] vividly portrays the outward splendor of the Assyrian warriors who captivated Oholibah (Jerusalem), leading her into spiritual adultery. The term underscores the deceptive allure of worldly power and beauty that enticed God's people away from their covenant fidelity. Theologically, mishʻîy serves as a poignant symbol of the superficial attractions that lead to unfaithfulness, emphasizing God's condemnation of spiritual idolatry and the dangers of being swayed by outward appearances rather than seeking true spiritual beauty and faithfulness to Him.
TRV