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.
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.
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.
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.
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