מָסַךְ
to mix, especially wine (with spices)
Definition
The Hebrew verb מָסַךְ (mâçak) primarily means 'to mix' or 'to mingle,' with its most specific application being the mixing of wine with spices or other ingredients to create a spiced or fortified drink. In Proverbs 9:2, 5, this action is part of the metaphorical preparation of wisdom's banquet. The word can also describe a state of being mixed up or confused, as seen in Isaiah 19:14, where God is said to have 'mingled' a spirit of perverseness in Egypt, leading to national confusion. In Psalm 102:9, the imagery is of mixing one's drink with tears, portraying deep mourning.
Biblical Usage
The word is used five times in the Old Testament, primarily in poetic and prophetic books (Psalms, Proverbs, Isaiah). Its usage falls into two clear patterns: the literal, positive act of preparing spiced wine (Proverbs 9:2, 5) and the metaphorical depiction of causing internal confusion or turmoil (Isaiah 19:14; Psalm 102:9). Isaiah 5:22 criticizes those who are 'mighty to mix drink,' linking the act to unjust leadership and excess.
Etymology
As a primitive root, מָסַךְ (mâçak) is the base word. It is related to the noun מֶסֶךְ (mesek, H4538), meaning 'mixture' or 'mixed wine.' The core concept is blending or combining, which extended from the physical act to metaphorical states of confusion.
Semantic Range
This word highlights a contrast between human preparation and divine action. In Proverbs, mixing wine is part of wisdom's gracious invitation. In Isaiah, however, God 'mixes' a spirit of confusion as an act of judgment (Isaiah 19:14), showing that the same God who offers wisdom can also bring disorientation to the rebellious. It reminds the reader that what humans mix for pleasure, God can use for a purpose, whether for blessing or for judicial hardening.
In the ancient Near East, mixing wine with spices, water, or other wines was common to improve taste, potency, or preservation. The 'mixed wine' in Proverbs was likely a sign of hospitality and celebration. Isaiah's condemnation in 5:22 targets leaders who prioritize indulging in such luxurious drink over administering justice, a serious social failing.
בָּלַל (balal, H1101) — to mix thoroughly, often for anointing oil or flour; more general. עָרַב (ʿarab, H6150) — to mix or pledge; often used for guaranteeing or becoming surety, with mixing as a secondary sense.
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.
Full methodology & sources →