The Hebrew word taʻătsumâh, represented by H8592, denotes power or might, often in a collective sense. Derived from a root meaning to be mighty, this is an exceptionally rare term. It appears just 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible, making its single usage a focused and potent statement about the origin of divine enablement.
The sole appearance of H8592 is in Psalms 68:35. In this verse, the word is used to describe a gift from God to His people. It is paired directly with "strength" H5797 to form a complete picture of divine empowerment. The passage states that the "terrible" God of Israel is the one "that giveth strength and power unto his people" Psalms 68:35. This context establishes that this might is not inherent to humanity but is a direct bestowal from the Lord.
Several related words from its biblical context illuminate the meaning of H8592:
- H5797 ʻôz (strength in various applications (force, security, majesty, praise)): This word is used in parallel with taʻătsumâh in its only occurrence. It frequently refers to God as a source of strength and refuge for his followers, as seen in the declaration "God is our refuge and strength" Psalms 46:1.
- H5414 nâthan (a primitive root; to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)): This is the action that defines the relationship between God and the power He grants. The verse emphasizes that God is the one who will give this power, a concept repeated elsewhere, such as His promise to give a new heart Ezekiel 36:26.
- H430 ʼĕlôhîym (plural of אֱלוֹהַּ; gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme God): This is the title for the supreme being who is the source of all power. The verse identifies God as the giver, the same creator God from the beginning Genesis 1:1.
The theological weight of H8592 is centered on the doctrine of divine empowerment.
- The Divine Source of Might: The primary lesson from its usage is that true power is not a human achievement but a divine gift. It originates from God H430 and is "given" H5414 by Him, explicitly identifying Him as the sole source Psalms 68:35.
- Reverence and Empowerment: The verse begins by calling God "terrible" H3372, a term indicating that He is worthy of awe and reverence. This same awesome God is the one who imparts strength and power, linking His majestic nature directly to His provision for His people.
- Covenantal Provision: This power is specifically granted "unto his people." This highlights a key biblical theme: God equips and strengthens those with whom He is in a covenant relationship, a promise echoed in passages like Isaiah 41:10 where He says "Fear thou not; for I am with thee."
In summary, taʻătsumâh H8592 is a highly specific term for power whose significance is derived from its singular, impactful context. Its appearance in Psalms 68:35 serves as a clear declaration that all might and strength available to God's people are a direct gift from Him. The word powerfully illustrates that the same God who is "terrible" and awe-inspiring is also the one who graciously bestows power upon His followers.
TRV