### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻizzûwz**, represented by `{{H5808}}`, is a term for **power** and strength. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Derived from a root meaning 'to be forcible', its definition encompasses the concepts of an **army**, **power**, and being **strong**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H5808}}` describes both divine and human might. In Psalms, it is used to characterize God directly, answering the question "Who is this King of glory?" with the declaration, "The LORD **strong** and mighty" [[Psalms 24:8]]. In Isaiah, it refers to the collective military **power** of an army, which God brings forth only to see it extinguished, demonstrating His ultimate authority over human strength [[Isaiah 43:17]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a broader context for the concept of strength and power:
* `{{H1368}}` **gibbôwr** (powerful; by implication, warrior, mighty): This word is used alongside `{{H5808}}` in [[Psalms 24:8]] to describe the LORD as "strong and **mighty**." It often denotes a warrior or champion, as seen when God is called **mighty** [[Zephaniah 3:17]].
* `{{H2428}}` **chayil** (an army, wealth, valor, strength): This term signifies a force of men or resources. It appears with `{{H5808}}` in the description of a military force brought to ruin: "the **army** and the power" [[Isaiah 43:17]]. Its meaning is contrasted with God's power in [[Zechariah 4:6]], "Not by **might**, nor by power, but by my spirit."
* `{{H4421}}` **milchâmâh** (a battle; war): This word for battle is directly associated with the LORD's strength in [[Psalms 24:8]], where He is called "mighty in **battle**." It reinforces that God's power is supreme in conflict [[2 Chronicles 20:15]].
* `{{H4428}}` **melek** (a king): The context for `{{H5808}}` in [[Psalms 24:8]] is a question about the "**King** of glory." This links God's powerful nature to His sovereign rule, a theme echoed when the LORD is called the "**King** of Israel" [[Isaiah 44:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5808}}` is significant despite its rarity. It is used to define a key attribute of God's character.
* **Divine Might:** The word is used to express the inherent, powerful nature of God. He is not just mighty, but fundamentally **strong** [[Psalms 24:8]], identifying this forcible power as part of His very being as the "King of glory."
* **Sovereignty Over Human Power:** By describing human military **power** as something God can bring forth and extinguish at will, the term underscores God's absolute sovereignty over earthly forces [[Isaiah 43:17]].
* **The Victorious Warrior:** In its primary context, `{{H5808}}` portrays God as a triumphant warrior. The "LORD **strong** and mighty" is specifically the one who is "mighty in **battle**" [[Psalms 24:8]], assuring that His strength guarantees victory.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5808}}` **ʻizzûwz** is a concise and potent word that communicates forcible strength. Though used only twice, it powerfully contrasts the absolute, victorious power of God with the finite and defeatable power of human armies. It serves as a declaration of God's identity as the all-powerful King, strong and mighty in all circumstances.
TRV