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.
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.
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.
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.
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