The Hebrew word śāgâʼ, represented by H7679, is a primitive root meaning to grow, enlarge, or figuratively, to laud or magnify. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. The term's meaning centers on the concept of enlargement, whether describing God's physical expansion of nations or humanity's figurative exaltation of His work.
The two appearances of H7679 highlight its distinct applications. In Job 12:23, it describes God's sovereign power over world affairs: "He increaseth the nations, and destroyeth them." Here, the word refers to the literal growth of a people, demonstrating divine control over history. In contrast, Job 36:24 shifts the focus to a human act of worship, stating, "Remember that thou magnify his work, which men behold." In this verse, the word is used figuratively to mean exalting or praising God's deeds.
Several related words provide deeper context for the actions and objects associated with H7679:
- H6467 pôʻal (an act or work): This is the object that is to be magnified in Job 36:24. God's work is presented as something to be recognized and praised, as it is perfect and a source of gladness Deuteronomy 32:4.
- H2142 zâkar (to mark, to remember): This action directly precedes the command to "magnify" God's work, showing that remembrance is a catalyst for praise Job 36:24. Scripture frequently calls on people to remember God, His name, and His covenant Psalms 20:7.
- H5148 nâchâh (to guide; straiten): This term is used in direct contrast to God's power to increase nations, as He also has the power to straiten them, showing the full scope of His authority Job 12:23. On a personal level, the same root is used for God's gentle guidance Psalms 23:3.
- H7849 shâṭach (to expand; enlarge): Used in parallel with H7679, this word reinforces the theme of God's power to enlarge the nations according to His will Job 12:23.
The theological weight of H7679 is demonstrated in its dual application:
- Sovereignty over Nations: The use in Job 12:23 underscores God's absolute control over the destiny of peoples. The act of "increasing" them is not random but a direct and deliberate exercise of His divine will.
- Praise as a Human Duty: In Job 36:24, the word defines a key aspect of worship. To magnify God's work is to verbally and mentally exalt its greatness, fulfilling a fundamental human responsibility to give God glory for what He has done.
- Connecting Divine Action and Human Response: The two occurrences of H7679 are theologically linked. The same divine power that increaseth the nations is the very work that humanity is commanded to magnify. God's actions in the world are the direct cause and substance of our praise.
In summary, H7679 is a powerful term that, despite its rare use, connects divine sovereignty with human worship. It encapsulates both God's authority to increase and enlarge on a global scale and our corresponding duty to magnify His work in praise. The word śāgâʼ teaches that observing God's power in action should naturally lead to an outpouring of adoration.
TRV