The Hebrew word saggîyʼ, represented by H7689, is a superlative term meaning mighty, excellent, or great. It appears only 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible, where it is used exclusively to describe the immense and supreme nature of God.
Both uses of H7689 appear in the book of Job, emphasizing a greatness that is beyond human understanding. In Job 36:26, it is declared that "God is great, and we know him not," linking the word to the concept of divine incomprehensibility. Similarly, Job 37:23 describes the Almighty as excellent in power, judgment, and justice, specifying that "we cannot find him out." In these contexts, saggîyʼ communicates a majesty that is both perfect in its attributes and beyond the limits of human perception.
Several related words help frame the concept of divine greatness and power:
- H410 ʼêl (God; mighty; power; strong): This is a core term for God, often highlighting His might. In Job 36:26, ʼêl is the one who is described as great H7689. The title is used prophetically in Isaiah 9:6, "The mighty God."
- H3581 kôach (vigor; force; might, power): This word for power is directly connected to God's excellence in Job 37:23. It signifies inherent strength and ability, as seen in Zechariah 4:6, which states a task will be accomplished "Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit."
- H7706 Shadday (the Almighty): This title for God is the subject described as "excellent" H7689 in Job 37:23. It denotes supreme power and authority, as when God introduces himself to Abram, saying "I am the Almighty God" Genesis 17:1.
The theological weight of H7689 is concentrated on defining the nature of God's majesty.
- Incomprehensible Greatness: The word is used to establish that God's greatness transcends human knowledge. This is stated directly in the text, "God is great, and we know him not" Job 36:26.
- Perfection of Attributes: saggîyʼ describes a greatness that is not abstract but is expressed through flawless characteristics. God is "excellent in power" H3581, "in judgment" H4941, and in "plenty of justice" H6666, as detailed in Job 37:23.
- The Almighty's Identity: By being used exclusively for God H410 and the Almighty H7706, the term reinforces that superlative excellence is an intrinsic part of His divine being.
In summary, saggîyʼ H7689 is a rare but potent descriptor reserved for the character of God. Though appearing only twice, it powerfully conveys a greatness that is absolute, perfect in its moral and sovereign expression, and ultimately beyond the full grasp of the human mind. It teaches that God's excellence is displayed through his infinite power, judgment, and justice.
TRV