### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **môtheq**, represented by `{{H4987}}`, denotes **sweetness**. It is a rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its singular use provides a focused illustration of its meaning as a valuable and desirable quality.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H4987}}` is within a parable in the book of Judges. When the trees of the forest seek a king, they ask the fig tree to rule. The fig tree declines, asking rhetorically, "Should I forsake my **sweetness** `{{H4987}}`, and my good fruit, and go to be promoted over the trees?" [[Judges 9:11]]. In this context, **sweetness** is presented as an intrinsic, positive attribute—the very essence of the fig tree's contribution—that should not be abandoned for a position of power.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several words used in this passage help to define the context of `{{H4987}}`:
* `{{H2308}}` **châdal** (forsake): This primitive root means to desist, cease, or leave off. In the parable, it is the action the fig tree refuses to take regarding its sweetness. Elsewhere, it is used to command the cessation of negative things, such as "cease to do evil" [[Isaiah 1:16]].
* `{{H2896}}` **ṭôwb** (good): A word used widely for something good, pleasant, or beautiful. It directly describes the fruit that accompanies the **sweetness** [[Judges 9:11]], reinforcing the positive nature of the fig tree's produce. The Lord requires what is "good," such as doing justly [[Micah 6:8]].
* `{{H8570}}` **tᵉnûwbâh** (fruit): Meaning produce or increase, this word refers to the tangible result of the fig tree's nature. It is this "good fruit" `{{H8570}}`, along with its **sweetness**, that the tree values. This word is also used for the "increase of the fields" that God provides [[Deuteronomy 32:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4987}}`, though based on a single verse, is found in its metaphorical application.
* **Intrinsic Value:** The parable in [[Judges 9:11]] uses **sweetness** to symbolize the inherent worth and purpose of an individual or entity. The fig tree's identity is tied to this quality, not to a potential rank or position over others.
* **Fruitfulness over Position:** The choice presented is between maintaining its God-given **sweetness** and good fruit `{{H8570}}` or abandoning it to "be promoted" `{{H5128}}`. This suggests a spiritual principle where one's primary calling and fruitful nature are more valuable than worldly status.
* **A Positive Quality to Preserve:** By contrasting **sweetness** with the idea of "forsaking" it `{{H2308}}`, the text implies it is a beneficial characteristic to be guarded and maintained, much like one is to hold fast to what is good.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4987}}` is a concise but potent term for **sweetness**. Its single scriptural use in a parable powerfully frames it as a symbol of inherent value, God-given purpose, and beneficial fruitfulness. The story of the fig tree uses **môtheq** to teach that abandoning one's essential, positive nature for the sake of promotion is a profound loss.
TRV