אַמְצָה
force
Definition
The Hebrew noun אַמְצָה (ʼamtsâh) refers to strength, force, or might, particularly in a military or physical context. It denotes the power or capacity to exert force, often in battle or situations requiring physical prowess. In its sole biblical occurrence in Zechariah 12:5, it describes the strength or might of the inhabitants of Jerusalem, portraying them as empowered by God. The word conveys a sense of robust, active power rather than mere potential.
Biblical Usage
This word appears only once in the Old Testament, in Zechariah 12:5. It is used in a prophetic context where the leaders of Judah declare that the inhabitants of Jerusalem find their 'strength' (אַמְצָה) in the LORD of hosts, their God. The usage is militaristic, set within an oracle about Jerusalem's future defense and divine empowerment against enemies. The singular occurrence suggests it is a specialized term for forceful might in a conflict setting.
Etymology
אַמְצָה derives from the root אָמַץ (ʼāmats, H553), meaning 'to be strong, alert, courageous, or bold.' This root is used in various forms to express strength and firmness. Cognates in other Semitic languages also relate to strength and firmness. The noun form אַמְצָה specifically encapsulates the abstract quality of force or strength emanating from this root.
Semantic Range
Though used only once, אַמְצָה is theologically significant as it attributes human strength directly to divine source. In Zechariah 12:5, Jerusalem's 'force' is not self-derived but found 'in the LORD of hosts.' This aligns with a core biblical theme that true strength and victory come from God (e.g., Psalm 20:7, 2 Chronicles 20:15). Understanding this Hebrew term enriches reading by highlighting that the prophecy assures not just physical defense, but God-empowered might, reinforcing dependence on Yahweh for deliverance.
In its ancient Near Eastern context, strength or force (אַמְצָה) was a valued attribute for warriors and communities facing conflict. A city's 'force' would include its able-bodied defenders and their capacity for battle. The cultural understanding differs from some modern individualistic concepts of strength; here, it is collective—the combined might of Jerusalem's inhabitants, ultimately sourced in their covenant God, contrasting with neighboring nations who trusted in gods like Baal or their own military power.
כֹּחַ (kōach, H3581) — general term for strength, power, or ability, used more broadly. גְּבוּרָה (gᵊḇûrâh, H1369) — often denotes might, valor, or heroic power, especially in military contexts. עֹז (ʿōz, H5797) — signifies strength, might, or majesty, frequently associated with God's power. חַיִל (ḥayil, H2428) — can mean strength, wealth, or army, often referring to capability or resources.
Word Details
How this works
Hebrew definitions are from Brown-Driver-Briggs (1906) and Strong's Exhaustive Concordance (1890), both public domain. BDB was groundbreaking for its era but reflects 19th-century assumptions about Semitic etymology. Modern scholarship (HALOT, DCH) has revised many entries. Use these definitions as a starting point for exploration, not as the final word on a term's meaning in context.
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