### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mishʻên**, represented by `{{H4937}}`, is defined as a support, protector, or sustenance; a stay. Though it appears only **5 times** across **3 unique verses**, its usage provides a powerful metaphor for divine reliance and provision. It signifies both concrete, life-sustaining resources and the abstract concept of a secure protector.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H4937}}` is used in two distinct contexts. In both [[2 Samuel 22:19]] and [[Psalms 18:18]], the psalmist declares that in the face of calamity, "the LORD was my **stay**." Here, the word conveys the idea of God as a reliable, personal protector in a time of crisis. In contrast, [[Isaiah 3:1]] describes an act of judgment where the LORD of hosts takes away "the **stay** and the staff" from Jerusalem and Judah. The passage then specifies this includes "the whole **stay** of bread, and the whole **stay** of water," linking the term directly to essential sustenance.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of **mishʻên**:
* `{{H3068}}` **Yᵉhôvâh**: This is the Jewish national name of God, Jehovah, the Lord. He is identified as the one who acts as the **stay** for his people [[Psalms 18:18]].
* `{{H4938}}` **mishʻênâh**: The feminine form of `{{H4937}}`, meaning staff or sustenance. It appears alongside **stay** in [[Isaiah 3:1]] and can refer to a comforting staff [[Psalms 23:4]] or a dangerously unreliable support, such as Egypt being a "staff of this broken reed" [[Isaiah 36:6]].
* `{{H6923}}` **qâdam**: Meaning to precede or meet, this word is used to describe how enemies "prevented" the psalmist in the day of his calamity ([[2 Samuel 22:19]], [[Psalms 18:18]]), creating the context in which the LORD was needed as a **stay**.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4937}}` is centered on the nature of reliance and divine sovereignty.
* **The LORD as a Refuge:** The word is used figuratively to portray God as the ultimate protector. When calamity comes, the LORD `{{H3068}}` Himself becomes the **stay** for the righteous, providing stability when all else fails [[Psalms 18:18]].
* **Sustenance as a Divine Judgment:** [[Isaiah 3:1]] demonstrates that God is the source of all physical support. The removal of the "**stay** of bread" and "**stay** of water" is a direct act of divine judgment, showing that God's provision should not be taken for granted.
* **A Contrast in Trust:** The concept of a **stay** forces a choice between relying on the eternal God or on temporary, worldly supports. While a physical "staff" `{{H4938}}` like Egypt might fail, the LORD as a **stay** is always dependable.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4937}}` serves as a concise and potent term for support. It encompasses both the physical sustenance required for life, such as bread and water, and the spiritual and protective support found only in God. Through its limited but powerful appearances, **mishʻên** teaches a fundamental lesson: the LORD is the only truly reliable **stay** in a world of calamity and uncertainty.
TRV