### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term תַּעֲצֻמָה (taʻătsumâh, `{{H8592}}`) is derived from the verbal root עָצַם (ʻātsam, `{{H6105}}`), which fundamentally means "to be strong," "to be mighty," "to be numerous," or "to be powerful." As a noun, תַּעֲצֻמָה carries the intensive or collective sense of "might" or "power." It denotes a significant degree of strength, capability, or force. While its base meaning is straightforward, its rare occurrences in the biblical text lend it a particular weight, emphasizing either inherent strength or the manifestation of considerable power. The plural form, תַּעֲצֻמוֹת, often implies "mighty efforts" or "great powers."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word תַּעֲצֻמָה (or its plural form תַּעֲצֻמוֹת) appears only twice in the Hebrew Bible, offering a focused yet profound insight into its usage:
1. **[[Job 36:19]]**: "Will your cry for help avail, or all the *power* (תַּעֲצֻמוֹת) of your efforts?"
In this passage, Elihu is speaking to Job, questioning the efficacy of human strength and "mighty efforts" (תַּעֲצֻמוֹת כָּל־מַאֲמַצֵּי כֹחַ) in the face of divine sovereignty. Here, תַּעֲצֻמוֹת refers to Job's own strenuous attempts, his human strength, or his most vigorous endeavors to justify himself or contend with God. The context highlights the futility and inadequacy of human power when set against the omnipotence of the Almighty. It implies that no amount of human strength or effort can alter God's righteous judgment or deliver one from His decrees.
2. **[[Psalm 68:35]]**: "Awesome is God from His sanctuary; the God of Israel Himself gives strength and *power* (תַּעֲצֻמֹת) to His people. Blessed be God!"
In stark contrast to the usage in Job, this psalm celebrates the divine source of power. Here, תַּעֲצֻמֹת refers to the strength and might that God Himself graciously bestows upon His chosen people. The verse is a doxology, praising God as the one who empowers Israel. This "power" is not something earned or inherently possessed by humanity, but a gift from the "God of Israel," enabling His people for His purposes and challenges. The context is one of worship and adoration, acknowledging God's unique capacity to impart true strength.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of תַּעֲצֻמָה is enriched by its relationship to other Hebrew terms expressing strength and power:
* **עָצַם (ʻātsam, `{{H6105}}`)**: The foundational verb from which תַּעֲצֻמָה is derived. It signifies "to be strong," "to be mighty," or "to be numerous." This root emphasizes the inherent quality of strength.
* **כֹּחַ (koach, `{{H3581}}`)**: A very common word for "strength," "power," or "ability," often referring to physical or inherent capacity. תַּעֲצֻמָה can be seen as a more intensive or specific manifestation of כֹּחַ.
* **עֹז (oz, `{{H5797}}`)**: Denotes "strength," "might," or "power," frequently associated with divine attributes, military prowess, or the strength of a nation.
* **גְּבוּרָה (gevurah, `{{H1369}}`)**: Refers to "might," "strength," or "valor," often in the context of heroic deeds, acts of power, or divine might demonstrated in action.
The concept of תַּעֲצֻמָה thus fits within a broader biblical vocabulary that distinguishes between human limitation and divine omnipotence, and between inherent strength and strength that is divinely bestowed.
### Theological Significance
The dual occurrences of תַּעֲצֻמָה offer a profound theological lesson regarding the nature and source of power:
1. **The Finitude of Human Power**: [[Job 36:19]] highlights the inadequacy of human תַּעֲצֻמוֹת when confronted with God's justice and sovereignty. It underscores a key biblical theme: humanity's inherent weakness and inability to contend with or fully comprehend the Almighty through self-effort. This serves as a call to humility and dependence on God rather than reliance on one's own strength.
2. **The Divine Source of True Power**: Conversely, [[Psalm 68:35]] reveals God as the ultimate and benevolent source of תַּעֲצֻמֹת. He is not only powerful in Himself but also actively imparts strength to His people. This is a crucial aspect of God's character as a covenant-keeping God who equips and enables those He has chosen. The power given is not for human glory but for the fulfillment of God's purposes and for the well-being of His people.
3. **Empowerment for God's Purposes**: The psalm's declaration that God "gives strength and power to His people" signifies divine enablement. This power is not merely physical but encompasses spiritual fortitude, resilience in trials, and effectiveness in service. It assures believers that they are not left to their own devices but are empowered by the Creator of the universe.
In essence, תַּעֲצֻמָה serves as a theological marker, pointing to the stark contrast between the limited, often futile, strength of humanity and the boundless, redemptive, and empowering might of God. It invites reverence for God's omnipotence and trust in His provision.
### Summary
תַּעֲצֻמָה (taʻătsumâh, `{{H8592}}`) is a Hebrew noun signifying "might" or "power," derived from the root עָצַם (`{{H6105}}`), meaning "to be strong." Though appearing only twice in the Hebrew Bible, its occurrences provide a rich theological contrast. In [[Job 36:19]], it refers to the limited and ultimately ineffectual "power of human efforts" when faced with divine judgment. In stark contrast, [[Psalm 68:35]] celebrates תַּעֲצֻמוֹת as the divine "power" that God graciously bestows upon His people. Theologically, תַּעֲצֻמָה thus underscores the futility of human self-reliance while simultaneously affirming God as the sole, magnificent source of true strength and empowerment for those who are His. It evokes both humility before God's sovereignty and confidence in His generous provision.
TRV