### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻotsmâh**, represented by `{{H6109}}`, denotes **powerfulness** and, by extension, **numerousness**, **abundance**, or **strength**. It appears only **3 times** across **3 unique verses**, yet its applications are significant, highlighting contrasts between divine enablement and human or corrupt power.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical appearances, `{{H6109}}` is used to describe different forms of might. In Isaiah, it refers to God's empowerment of the weak, stating that to those with no might He "increaseth **strength**" [[Isaiah 40:29]]. The term is also used negatively in a prophecy against Babylon, where judgment will come for the "great **abundance**" of its enchantments [[Isaiah 47:9]]. Finally, in Nahum, it describes the formidable might of nations, where Ethiopia and Egypt were the personified **strength** of Nineveh [[Nahum 3:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of strength and power:
* `{{H3581}}` **kôach**: This word for **power** or **strength** appears in the same verse as `{{H6109}}`, describing what God "giveth to the faint" before He increases their strength [[Isaiah 40:29]]. It signifies vigor and capacity.
* `{{H202}}` **ʼôwn**: Meaning **might** or **strength**, this term is used in contrast to God's provision in [[Isaiah 40:29]], which describes those who have "no **might**" as the recipients of divine strength.
* `{{H7235}}` **râbâh**: A verb meaning **to increase** or **multiply**, it is used to show the action God takes, as he "increaseth" `{{H7235}}` **strength** `{{H6109}}` for the weary [[Isaiah 40:29]].
* `{{H5833}}` **ʻezrâh**: This term for **aid** or **help** is used in [[Nahum 3:9]], distinguishing the supporting role of allies from the core **strength** `{{H6109}}` provided by Ethiopia and Egypt.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6109}}` is found in its contrasting applications.
* **Source of True Strength:** The clearest theological point is that God is the ultimate source of power. He provides **strength** not to the mighty, but specifically to the faint and powerless, demonstrating that His power is made perfect in weakness [[Isaiah 40:29]].
* **Critique of Worldly Power:** The word is used to describe the impressive military **strength** of powerful nations [[Nahum 3:9]]. However, this context serves as a reminder that such worldly power is finite and ultimately insufficient without divine backing.
* **Power as a Corrupting Force:** The use of `{{H6109}}` to mean "abundance" in [[Isaiah 47:9]] warns that great power or numerousness can be corrupting. Babylon's "great **abundance** of thine enchantments" is a direct cause for its sudden downfall.
### Summary
In summary, **ʻotsmâh** `{{H6109}}` is a nuanced word that encompasses both strength and abundance. Though rare, its usage provides a powerful lesson by contrasting the genuine, restorative **strength** that God provides with the transient power of nations and the corrupting **abundance** of evil. It shows that the value of any power is defined by its source.
TRV