### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻâtsûwm**, represented by `{{H6099}}`, describes that which is **powerful**, **numerous**, and **mighty**. It appears 31 times across 31 unique verses in the Bible. While its primary meaning relates to great strength or large numbers, it can also paradoxically be translated as **feeble**, highlighting a range of applications from overwhelming force to inherent weakness.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H6099}}` is frequently used to characterize the strength and size of nations and peoples. God repeatedly describes the inhabitants of Canaan as nations "greater and **mightier** than thou" to emphasize that Israel's victory would be His work ([[Deuteronomy 7:1]], [[Deuteronomy 9:1]]). Conversely, the term is used for God's promise to make Abraham a "great and **mighty** nation" [[Genesis 18:18]] and to transform Israel from a "few" people in Egypt into a nation "great, **mighty**, and populous" [[Deuteronomy 26:5]]. Prophets also use it to describe formidable invading armies, such as the locust-like nation in Joel, which is "strong, and without number" [[Joel 1:6]]. In a notable contrast, it describes the conies as a "**feeble** folk" [[Proverbs 30:26]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to define the scope of might and greatness:
* `{{H1419}}` **gâdôwl** (great): This word is often paired with `ʻâtsûwm` to emphasize both size and power, as in the promise that Abraham would become a "great and **mighty** nation" [[Genesis 18:18]]. It signifies greatness in any sense.
* `{{H7227}}` **rab** (abundant, many): Frequently used alongside `ʻâtsûwm`, this term underscores numerical superiority. Pharaoh fears that the Israelites are "**more** and **mightier** than we" [[Exodus 1:9]], combining the ideas of population and power.
* `{{H3581}}` **kôach** (power, strength): As a synonym for vigor and force, `kôach` relates to the inherent strength described by `ʻâtsûwm`. It is used to describe a "very great and **mighty** army" where `ʻâtsûwm` describes the army and `kôach` describes the king's power [[Daniel 11:25]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6099}}` is significant, often illustrating the dynamic of divine versus human strength.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The word is used to describe the formidable power of the nations Israel was to dispossess. This context reinforces Israel's dependence on God, who could drive out nations "**mightier**" than themselves [[Joshua 23:9]].
* **Covenant Promise:** God's power is demonstrated in His promise to make His chosen people `ʻâtsûwm`. A "small one" will become a "**strong** nation" [[Isaiah 60:22]], and even "her that halted" will be made a "**strong** nation" [[Micah 4:7]].
* **The Peril of Misused Strength:** The term is not limited to physical or military might. Amos uses it to condemn Israel for their "**mighty** sins" [[Amos 5:12]], and Proverbs warns that "many **strong** men have been slain" by folly [[Proverbs 7:26]]. This shows that strength apart from God leads to ruin.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6099}}` is a dynamic term conveying concepts of might, power, and numerical abundance. It is used to describe the formidable enemies of God's people, the covenantal promises of strength God gives to them, and the moral weight of sin. From the "**mighty**" nations of Canaan to the "**feeble** folk" of the conies, `ʻâtsûwm` serves as a recurring reminder that true, lasting strength originates from and is governed by God alone.
TRV