### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mâthâq**, represented by `{{H4988}}`, is a term for a **dainty** or to **feed sweetly**. It appears just **1 time** in **1 unique verse**, making its singular appearance highly specific in its biblical application.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H4988}}` is in [[Job 24:20]], where it is used to describe the grim fate of the wicked. The verse states that after being forgotten by the womb `{{H7358}}` that bore him, "the worm shall **feed sweetly** on him." This powerful image portrays a final, ignominious end where the wicked person is not only dead but is utterly and completely consumed. The context makes it clear that he will be "no more remembered" `{{H2142}}`, with his demise being as final as wickedness `{{H5766}}` being broken like a tree `{{H6086}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its only context in [[Job 24:20]] help clarify its meaning:
* `{{H7415}}` **rimmâh** (worm): This word for a maggot is the agent performing the action of `{{H4988}}`. It is associated with decay and the grave, as seen when Job says he has called "to the **worm**, Thou art my mother, and my sister" [[Job 17:14]].
* `{{H7911}}` **shâkach** (forget): This root means to be oblivious of, from want of memory or attention. In the verse, the womb will **forget** the wicked man, signifying a complete separation from his origin [[Job 24:20]]. This state of being forgotten is a key part of the judgment.
* `{{H5766}}` **ʻevel** (wickedness): Defined as moral evil or iniquity, this is the reason for the man's judgment. The passage culminates with the statement that **wickedness** itself "shall be broken" [[Job 24:20]], a fate directly linked to the man being consumed.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4988}}` is tied entirely to its vivid use in illustrating divine judgment.
* **The Finality of Judgment:** The phrase "feed sweetly" implies a complete and effortless consumption. The wicked person becomes a "dainty" for the worm `{{H7415}}`, signifying an irreversible and final state of destruction where their wickedness `{{H5766}}` is broken `{{H7665}}`.
* **The Consequence of Oblivion:** The verse links physical decay with being forgotten `{{H7911}}` by one's origin—the womb `{{H7358}}`—and being "no more remembered" `{{H2142}}`. This presents a stark picture where the end of the wicked is not just death, but total oblivion.
* **The Breaking of Evil:** The individual's demise serves as a metaphor for a greater principle: "wickedness shall be broken as a tree" [[Job 24:20]]. The breaking of a tree `{{H6086}}` is a definitive action, suggesting that the influence and structure of evil will ultimately be shattered.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4988}}` is a uniquely descriptive word used once to illustrate the ultimate end of the ungodly. Its meaning, "feed sweetly," adds a grim finality to the imagery of the worm `{{H7415}}` consuming the forgotten wicked in [[Job 24:20]]. It is a cornerstone of a passage that powerfully connects physical decay with the state of being forgotten `{{H7911}}` and the ultimate breaking `{{H7665}}` of wickedness `{{H5766}}`, demonstrating how a single, rare word can convey a profound theological statement about justice.
TRV