### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼămêlâl**, represented by `{{H537}}`, means **languid; feeble**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**, making it a highly specific term used to describe a state of weakness or powerlessness.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H537}}` is in Nehemiah, where the enemies of the Jews use it as a term of mockery. Before the army `{{H2428}}` of Samaria `{{H8111}}`, an adversary spake `{{H559}}`, asking, "What do these **feeble** `{{H537}}` Jews `{{H3064}}`?" [[Nehemiah 4:2]]. The term is used to express contempt for their perceived inability to rebuild Jerusalem's wall, questioning if they could possibly fortify `{{H5800}}` themselves or revive `{{H2421}}` the burned stones `{{H68}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context help frame the meaning of **ʼămêlâl**:
* `{{H3064}}` **Yᵉhûwdîy** (Jew): This identifies the people being derided as feeble. They are the descendants of Judah who have returned to rebuild [[Nehemiah 4:2]].
* `{{H2421}}` **châyâh** (to revive): The mockers question if the "feeble" Jews can perform the miraculous act of reviving stones from burned rubbish, a task that implies bringing life from death [[Nehemiah 4:2]].
* `{{H2428}}` **chayil** (army, strength): This word describes the force of Samaria, whose human strength and military might stand in direct contrast to the perceived feebleness of the Jews they are mocking [[Nehemiah 4:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H537}}` comes entirely from its unique context.
* **Derision Against God's People:** The term is used by an adversary to express scorn for the Jews `{{H3064}}` attempting to do God's work, highlighting how those who serve God may appear weak to the world [[Nehemiah 4:2]].
* **Perceived vs. Actual Strength:** The charge of being "feeble" is leveled by the army `{{H2428}}` of Samaria `{{H8111}}`, a human force, against a people whose ultimate strength is not their own. The question of whether they can "revive" `{{H2421}}` the stones points to a work that is beyond mere human ability.
* **Foundation of Faith:** The mockery targets the Jews' core activities of restoration and worship—to fortify `{{H5800}}` and to sacrifice `{{H2076}}`. Being labeled as "feeble" in these efforts underscores that the foundation of their work was faith in God, not their own might [[Nehemiah 4:2]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H537}}` is a concise and potent descriptor for weakness. Its single usage in scripture is not a simple statement of fact but a scornful taunt from an enemy. The context of [[Nehemiah 4:2]] uses the idea of being **feeble** to set the stage for a demonstration of God's power, proving that what is considered languid and weak by men can become a vehicle for divine restoration and strength.
TRV