מַמְסָךְ
mixture, i.e. (specifically) wine mixed (with water or spices)
Definition
מַמְסָךְ refers to a mixed drink, specifically wine that has been blended with other substances. In its two biblical occurrences, it denotes wine mixed with water or spices, likely to enhance flavor or reduce potency. In Proverbs 23:30, it is associated with those who linger over wine and seek out mixed drinks, highlighting indulgence. In Isaiah 65:11, it is part of a pagan ritual where people prepare a table for Fortune and fill bowls of mixed wine for Destiny, depicting idolatrous practice.
Biblical Usage
This word appears only twice in the Old Testament, both in poetic or prophetic contexts. In Proverbs 23:30, it is used in wisdom literature to critique excessive drinking, describing those who 'tarry long at wine' and 'go in search of mixed wine.' In Isaiah 65:11, it appears in a prophetic condemnation of idolatry, where people 'set a table for Fortune and fill bowls of mixed wine for Destiny.' The usage consistently involves ritual or indulgent drinking contexts.
Etymology
Derived from the root מָסַךְ (H4537, māsak), meaning 'to mix' or 'to mingle.' This root is also used for pouring libations or anointing. The noun form מַמְסָךְ specifically denotes the product of that mixing—a blended beverage, emphasizing the action of combining ingredients.
Semantic Range
This word carries theological weight as it contrasts proper worship with idolatry and wisdom with folly. In Isaiah 65:11, the 'mixed wine' is part of pagan worship, illustrating Israel's rebellion against Yahweh. In Proverbs 23:30, seeking mixed wine symbolizes a lack of self-control and departure from wise living. Understanding this Hebrew term enriches reading by highlighting how material practices like drink preparation were spiritually significant, either corrupting covenant loyalty or moral character.
In ancient Near Eastern culture, mixing wine was common; water was often added to dilute strength, and spices could be included for taste or preservation. However, in religious settings, mixed wine was used in libations to deities. The biblical references reflect this dual use—both in secular feasting (Proverbs) and pagan ritual (Isaiah)—showing how a everyday practice could take on idolatrous meaning.
מִסְכָּה (miskāh, H4538) — a libation or drink offering, often poured out in worship; תִּירוֹשׁ (tîrôš, H8492) — new wine or freshly pressed grape juice, unfermented or in process; יַיִן (yayin, H3196) — general term for wine, often fermented.
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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