The Hebrew word ʼÂmôwn, represented by H528, is a term of Egyptian derivation specifically associated with the Egyptian deity Amon. It is translated as multitude or populous and appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible, always used as an adjunct to the city of No.
In its biblical usage, H528 consistently refers to the great Egyptian city of No, also known as Thebes. In Jeremiah, God declares His intent to "punish the multitude of No" Jeremiah 46:25, targeting the city's vast population along with Pharaoh H6547 and the gods of Egypt H4714. The prophet Nahum uses the term rhetorically, asking if Nineveh is better than "populous No" Nahum 3:8, a city that was strategically situated among rivers H2975 and fortified by the sea H3220 as its rampart H2426 and wall H2346.
Several related words provide context for the power and judgment associated with H528:
- H4996 Nôʼ (No): This is the proper name for Thebes, the capital of Upper Egypt. H528 is always used to describe this specific city, as seen in both of its occurrences (Jeremiah 46:25, Nahum 3:8).
- H527 ʼâmôwn (multitude): A variation word meaning "a throng of people." It appears alongside H528 in both verses, reinforcing the idea of a great population that is the subject of divine judgment Jeremiah 46:25.
- H2426 chêyl (rampart, army): Describing the defenses of populous No, this word signifies an intrenchment or bulwark. The city's "rampart was the sea" Nahum 3:8, highlighting its perceived strength.
- H4714 Mitsrayim (Egypt): As a term of Egyptian origin, H528 is intrinsically linked to this nation. Judgment is pronounced against the multitude of No and Egypt as a whole Jeremiah 46:25.
The theological significance of H528 is tied to God's sovereignty over foreign powers and their deities.
- Judgment on Idolatry: The term itself is a name for an Egyptian deity, Amon. God's declaration to "punish the multitude of No...with their gods" Jeremiah 46:25 is a direct challenge to the false worship and trust H982 placed in Egyptian idols and leaders.
- Futility of Human Strength: The depiction of "populous No" Nahum 3:8 with its formidable natural defenses serves as a powerful example. Despite its greatness and population, the city was not beyond the reach of God's judgment, demonstrating that no amount of human might can stand against Him.
- Sovereignty of God: The pronouncements against this great city are made by "The LORD H3068 of hosts H6635, the God H430 of Israel H3478" Jeremiah 46:25. This use of H528 underscores that the God of Israel holds authority over all nations, their kings, and their gods.
In summary, H528 is a specific and potent term used exclusively to describe the populous nature of the Egyptian city of No, while also alluding to its chief deity, Amon. Occurring only in prophetic oracles of judgment, it serves to highlight the futility of trusting in human numbers, fortifications, or foreign gods. The use of ʼÂmôwn demonstrates that the God of Israel's power is supreme, extending even to the heart of the most powerful empires on earth.
TRV