from שָׁרָה in the sense of loosening; maceration, i.e. steeped juice; liquor.
Transliteration:mishrâh
Pronunciation:mish-raw'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term מִשְׁרָה (mishrâh), transliterated as mishrâh `{{H4952}}`, is derived from the verbal root שָׁרָה (sharâh) `{{H8281}}`, which conveys the sense of "to loosen," "to release," or "to spread out." In the context of mishrâh, this root implies a process of "maceration" – the softening or breaking down of a substance by steeping it in liquid. Thus, the core meaning refers to "steeped juice" or "liquor," signifying the rich extract or fluid produced through such a process. It denotes a substance that has been thoroughly permeated and dissolved, yielding its essence or flavor.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word מִשְׁרָה (mishrâh) `{{H4952}}` appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in [[Numbers 11:8]]. The context is the Israelites' journey through the wilderness and their complaints about the manna provided by God. The verse describes the preparation and taste of the manna: "The people went about and gathered it and ground it in mills or beat it in mortars, and boiled it in pots or made cakes of it; and its taste was like the taste of cakes baked with oil." The crucial phrase follows: "and its taste was like the taste of mishrâh oil."
Various translations interpret mishrâh in this context. The King James Version renders it as "fresh oil," while others use "rich oil" or "oil cake." This suggests that the quality being described is one of richness, moistness, and pleasantness, akin to a desirable oil or a delicacy prepared with it. Rather than a simple liquid, mishrâh here likely refers to the unctuous, flavorful essence derived from a substance, implying a delectable and satisfying quality to the manna, despite the Israelites' later discontent. The comparison to "oil" (שֶׁמֶן - shemen `{{H8081}}`) further emphasizes a desirable, perhaps even luxurious, taste experience.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary linguistic connection for mishrâh `{{H4952}}` is its root, שָׁרָה (sharâh) `{{H8281}}`, which signifies "to loosen," "to release," or "to spread out." This root is distinct from others that might seem phonetically similar, and its connection to mishrâh emphasizes the idea of a substance being "released" or "extracted" into a liquid form.
Other related concepts in the biblical lexicon, particularly in the context of [[Numbers 11:8]], include:
* **שֶׁמֶן (shemen) `{{H8081}}`**: "oil," "fat," often associated with richness, anointing, and sustenance. The explicit comparison of manna's taste to mishrâh oil directly links these concepts.
* **דֶּשֶׁן (deshen) `{{H1880}}`**: "fatness," "richness," often referring to the fertile or abundant aspects of the land, or the fat of sacrifices. This term reinforces the idea of a desirable, nourishing quality.
* **מַטְעַם (mat'am) `{{H4307}}`**: "dainty," "savory food," highlighting the pleasantness of taste. While not directly related by root, the concept of a delightful taste is central to the description of manna.
### Theological Significance
Despite its singular occurrence, the theological significance of mishrâh `{{H4952}}` is profound, rooted in its description of the divinely provided manna. The comparison of manna's taste to mishrâh oil underscores the nature of God's provision for His people in the wilderness. It was not merely adequate for survival but was described as possessing a rich, pleasant, and satisfying quality. This detail reveals several theological truths:
1. **God's Abundant Provision**: Even in the harsh wilderness, God did not provide meager or unpalatable food. The manna, likened to mishrâh oil, signifies a provision that was not only sufficient but also delightful and nourishing, reflecting God's generous and caring nature.
2. **Divine Grace Amidst Human Folly**: The description of manna's pleasant taste stands in stark contrast to the Israelites' subsequent grumbling and longing for the "fish, cucumbers, melons, leeks, onions, and garlic" of Egypt ([[Numbers 11:5]]). This highlights their ingratitude and spiritual blindness, failing to appreciate the rich, miraculous sustenance provided by God Himself.
3. **A Foretaste of Spiritual Sustenance**: The manna, as a type of spiritual food, foreshadows Christ, the true "bread from heaven" ([[John 6:32-35]]). Just as manna was a rich and satisfying provision for physical life, Christ offers spiritual sustenance that is truly abundant and eternal, far surpassing any earthly desire. The mishrâh quality hints at the complete and satisfying nature of God's grace.
### Summary
The Hebrew word מִשְׁרָה (mishrâh) `{{H4952}}` derives from the root שָׁרָה (sharâh) `{{H8281}}`, meaning "to loosen" or "to macerate," and refers to a "steeped juice" or "liquor" – an extracted, rich essence. Its sole biblical occurrence in [[Numbers 11:8]] describes the taste of the manna provided to the Israelites in the wilderness, likening it to "fresh oil" or "rich oil." This comparison emphasizes the manna's pleasant, satisfying, and desirable quality. Theologically, mishrâh highlights the abundant and delightful nature of God's divine provision, underscoring His lavish care for His people even in challenging circumstances, and serving as a poignant contrast to human ingratitude.
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