from מֶתֶג and אַמָּה with the art. interposed; bit of the metropolis; Metheg-ha-Ammah, an epithet of Gath; Metheg-ammah.
Transliteration:Metheg hâ-ʼAmmâh
Pronunciation:meh'-theg haw-am-maw'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma `{{H4965}}`, *Metheg hâ-ʼAmmâh* (מֶתֶג הָאַמָּה), is a unique and highly specific term. It is a compound phrase formed from `{{H4964}}` (*metheg*), meaning "bridle" or "bit," and `{{H520}}` (*'ammah*), which primarily denotes a "cubit" or "forearm," but here, with the definite article and in context, takes on the figurative sense of "mother city" or "metropolis." Thus, the phrase literally translates to "the bridle of the metropolis" or "the bit of the mother city." This epithet is specifically applied to the Philistine city of Gath, signifying a profound act of control or subjugation over a significant urban center. The semantic range is therefore narrow, pointing to the complete mastery or taming of a prominent, previously unconquered entity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term *Metheg hâ-ʼAmmâh* appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in [[2 Samuel 8:1]]: "After this it came about that David defeated the Philistines and subdued them; and David took Metheg-ha-Ammah from the hand of the Philistines." This verse marks a pivotal moment in David's reign, describing his decisive victory over the Philistines, Israel's long-standing and formidable adversaries. The capture of "Metheg-ha-Ammah" signifies not merely a territorial acquisition but a symbolic and actual subjugation of the Philistine power. Gath was one of the five major Philistine cities, often at the forefront of conflicts with Israel, and famously the home of Goliath ([[1 Samuel 17:4]]). To "take the bridle of the metropolis" from them implies a complete and humiliating defeat, a taming of their strength and a seizing of their very control. The Septuagint offers various interpretations, sometimes rendering it as "tribute" or "Gath and her daughters," which further underscores its connection to Gath and its strategic importance as a center of Philistine power. This victory is presented as part of David's divinely-empowered expansion and consolidation of the Israelite kingdom.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding `{{H4965}}` is enhanced by examining its constituent parts and related concepts:
* `{{H4964}}` (*metheg*): "Bridle" or "bit." This primary component evokes the imagery of controlling a powerful animal. In the context of a city, it metaphorically represents the means by which its strength is curbed and its will is subjected.
* `{{H520}}` (*'ammah*): While often "cubit" or "forearm," its use here in the epithet suggests a deeper meaning related to a foundational or central entity, hence "mother city" or "metropolis." This highlights Gath's status as a significant and perhaps leading Philistine city.
* `{{H1660}}` (*Gath*): The specific city to which *Metheg hâ-ʼAmmâh* refers. Gath's historical prominence as a Philistine stronghold and a recurring threat to Israel provides the essential backdrop for understanding the significance of its subjugation.
* **Subjugation and Dominion:** The concept of taking a "bridle" from an enemy signifies complete victory and the establishment of dominion. This aligns with broader biblical themes of God granting victory to His chosen leaders and establishing their rule over adversaries.
* **Divine Empowerment:** David's ability to achieve such a decisive victory is consistently attributed to divine aid and blessing throughout the narrative of 2 Samuel 8.
### Theological Significance
The singular mention of *Metheg hâ-ʼAmmâh* in [[2 Samuel 8:1]] carries profound theological weight within the narrative of the Davidic kingdom. It symbolizes the divine faithfulness to the covenant promises made to David, particularly concerning the establishment and security of his throne ([[2 Samuel 7:8-16]]). David's triumph over the Philistines, culminating in the capture of "the bridle of the metropolis" (Gath), is not merely a military achievement but a manifestation of God's sovereignty. It demonstrates God empowering His chosen king to subdue the enemies of Israel, thereby securing the borders and preparing the way for an era of peace and the eventual building of the Temple by Solomon. The imagery of taking a "bridle" further suggests a divine taming of the forces hostile to God's people, bringing them under control and demonstrating God's ultimate authority over all nations. This victory contributes to the theological portrait of David as a king after God's own heart, through whom God's purposes for Israel are fulfilled.
### Summary
*Metheg hâ-ʼAmmâh* (`{{H4965}}`) is a unique Hebrew epithet, meaning "the bridle of the metropolis," specifically referring to the Philistine city of Gath. Its sole biblical occurrence in [[2 Samuel 8:1]] describes David's decisive victory over the Philistines and his subjugation of this powerful enemy city. The term symbolizes complete control and dominion, signifying David's taming of a formidable adversary. Theologically, this event underscores God's faithfulness to His covenant with David, empowering him to establish the security and expansion of the Israelite kingdom, and demonstrating divine sovereignty over the nations hostile to His people. It represents a key moment in the consolidation of David's reign and the fulfillment of God's promises.
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