מַעֲרָצָה
violence
Definition
The noun מַעֲרָצָה (maʻărâtsâh) refers to a state of terror, dread, or violent shattering. It denotes a powerful, overwhelming force that causes destruction and fear. In its sole biblical occurrence in Isaiah 10:33, it describes the terrifying action of God in cutting down the lofty and haughty, like felling a forest. The word carries the dual sense of the violent act itself and the resulting atmosphere of terror.
Biblical Usage
This word is used only once in the Old Testament, in Isaiah 10:33. It appears in a prophetic oracle of judgment against Assyria, describing God's decisive and terrifying intervention. The context is one of divine warfare and the humbling of human pride through a display of overwhelming power.
Etymology
Derived from the root עָרַץ (ʻārats, H6206), which means 'to tremble,' 'to dread,' or 'to be terrified.' This root conveys the idea of causing or experiencing intense fear. מַעֲרָצָה is a noun form that focuses on the cause or instance of that terror—the violent, shattering event that produces dread.
Semantic Range
This word is theologically significant as it portrays a key aspect of God's character in judgment: His terrifying power against arrogance and oppression. In Isaiah 10:33, it illustrates that God's sovereignty ultimately shatters human empires that exalt themselves. Understanding this Hebrew term enriches the reading of prophecy by emphasizing that divine judgment is not merely punitive but is a terrifying display of holiness that dismantles pride.
In the ancient Near Eastern context, the imagery of cutting down lofty trees (as in Isaiah 10:33-34) was a common metaphor for the defeat of kings and nations. The terror (מַעֲרָצָה) described would resonate with an audience familiar with the sudden, violent overthrow of seemingly permanent powers, underscoring the absolute and frightening authority of Yahweh over all human kingdoms.
חָמָס (ḥāmās, H2555) — a more common term for violence, often implying wrongful, cruel, or unjust action. פַּחַד (paḥad, H6343) — focuses more on the emotion of fear or dread itself, rather than the terrifying event. אֵימָה (ʼêmâh, H367) — terror or horror, often used for the dread inspired by God or mighty nations.
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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