### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼômets**, represented by `{{H555}}`, denotes **strength** or being **stronger**. Derived from the root word אָמַץ, it is a highly specific term. It appears just **1 times** across **1 unique verses** in the entire Bible, highlighting its focused application.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H555}}` is in [[Job 17:9]], where Job declares, "The righteous also shall hold on his way, and he that hath clean hands shall be stronger and stronger." In this context, **ʼômets** describes a progressive and earned strength. It is the outcome for a **righteous** person `{{H6662}}` who steadfastly holds `{{H270}}` to their **way** `{{H1870}}`, a course of life characterized by integrity and purity ("clean hands"). The strength is not a starting point but a result of perseverance, as one is to "be" or "add" `{{H3254}}` this strength.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept of strength in [[Job 17:9]] is built upon several key related terms:
* `{{H6662}}` **tsaddîyq** (just; just, lawful, righteous (man)): This defines the character of the person who gains this strength. The path of the just shines more and more [[Proverbs 4:18]], and though they may have many afflictions, the Lord delivers them [[Psalms 34:19]].
* `{{H270}}` **ʼâchaz** (to seize): This verb implies a firm, active grip. It is used to describe how a person holds to God's steps [[Job 23:11]] and how God holds his people by the hand [[Psalms 73:23]].
* `{{H1870}}` **derek** (a road; figuratively, a course of life or mode of action): This signifies the path of righteousness that must be held. It is the way a person should go [[Isaiah 48:17]] and the way they must acknowledge God in [[Proverbs 3:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H555}}` is concentrated in its single usage, providing a clear model for spiritual development.
* **Perseverance Rewarded:** The central theme is that enduring faithfulness leads to increased strength. The one who "shall hold" `{{H270}}` to their path is the one who will become "stronger and stronger" `{{H555}}`.
* **Strength from Purity:** The condition for this increasing strength is having "clean hands" (`{{H2890}}`, `{{H3027}}`), a term signifying moral **purity** and righteous actions. This directly links moral conduct to spiritual fortitude, as seen in the promise to the one who loves "pureness of heart" [[Proverbs 22:11]].
* **Augmented Growth:** The verb paired with **ʼômets** is `{{H3254}}`, which means "to add or augment." This underscores that the strength is not static but continually increases as a person maintains their righteous walk, a principle seen when the Lord gave Job twice as much as he had before [[Job 42:10]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H555}}` **ʼômets** offers a concise yet profound picture of spiritual vitality. Though appearing only once, it defines a strength that is progressive, conditional, and rooted in righteousness. It is not an inherent quality but a divine reward for the one who holds fast to a pure and just way of life, becoming continuously stronger as a result of their unwavering commitment.
TRV