### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mashshâq**, represented by `{{H4944}}`, describes a traversing or rapid motion, specifically a **running to and fro**. Derived from the root word `{{H8264}}`, it appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its singular use provides a vivid and specific image of chaotic, swift movement.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H4944}}` is in [[Isaiah 33:4]], where it is used in a powerful simile to describe the plundering of an enemy's spoil. The verse states that the spoil will be gathered "as the **running to and fro** of locusts shall he run upon them." This imagery connects the frantic, all-consuming movement of a swarm of locusts to the swift and thorough manner in which the plunder will be seized, emphasizing a scene of sudden and total reversal.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words found in its immediate context help to clarify the meaning of `{{H4944}}`:
* `{{H8264}}` **shâqaq** (to course (like a beast of prey); by implication, to seek greedily; have appetite, justle one against another, long, range, run (to and fro)): This is the primitive root from which **mashshâq** is derived. In [[Isaiah 33:4]], it is used as the verb "shall he run," directly linking the action to the noun form.
* `{{H1357}}` **gêb** (a locust): This is the creature whose movement is described by `{{H4944}}`. The "running to and fro" is explicitly that of locusts, creating a metaphor for a devastating swarm [[Isaiah 33:4]].
* `{{H7998}}` **shâlâl** (booty; prey, spoil): This is the object being gathered. The action of `{{H4944}}` is part of a comparison describing how this spoil will be taken from the enemy [[Isaiah 33:4]].
* `{{H622}}` **ʼâçaph** (to gather for any purpose; hence, to receive, take away, i.e. remove): This word describes the result of the frantic action. The spoil is "gathered" with the same intensity as the locusts' "running to and fro" [[Isaiah 33:4]].
### Theological Significance
The thematic weight of `{{H4944}}`, though from a single verse, is significant in its context of divine judgment.
* **Imagery of Judgment:** The term contributes to a vivid picture of an overwhelming and sudden reversal. The "running to and fro" illustrates the chaotic but effective nature of the judgment, which descends with the unstoppable force of a natural plague [[Isaiah 33:4]].
* **Swift Reversal:** The word highlights the speed at which fortune changes. The Assyrian plunderers are themselves plundered in a rapid and frantic manner, captured by the image of swarming locusts.
* **Nature as Metaphor:** The use of `{{H4944}}` in the context of locusts `{{H1357}}` demonstrates a common biblical technique of using natural phenomena to illustrate divine action. The chaotic, all-consuming movement of a swarm serves as a powerful metaphor for the totality of the coming plunder.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4944}}` is a rare but impactful word that means **running to and fro**. Its single use in [[Isaiah 33:4]] provides a powerful and specific image, comparing the gathering of spoil to the frantic, swarming motion of locusts. Though its usage is limited, it serves as a potent example of how a precise word can create a vivid and memorable metaphor for swift and comprehensive divine judgment.
TRV