### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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