מִלָּה

a word; collectively, a discourse; figuratively, a topic

Definition

The Hebrew noun מִלָּה (millâh) primarily means 'a word' or 'utterance,' often referring to a single spoken or written term. In a collective sense, it can denote an entire 'discourse' or 'speech,' as seen when Job's friends present lengthy arguments (e.g., Job 8:10). Figuratively, it extends to mean a 'topic' or 'subject matter' under discussion, such as in Job 12:11 where the ear tests 'words' like the palate tastes food. In 2 Samuel 23:2, it carries a profound weight, describing the divine 'word' spoken through David.

Biblical Usage

מִלָּה appears 38 times in the Old Testament, with a striking concentration in the poetic and wisdom literature, especially the Book of Job (over 20 occurrences). It is frequently used in dialogues about speech, wisdom, and rebuke. For example, Eliphaz uses it to question if one can be patient with 'words' (Job 4:2), and Job himself challenges the substance of his friends' 'words' (Job 6:26). Its usage outside Job is rarer but significant, as in the 'last words' of David (2 Samuel 23:2).

Etymology

מִלָּה is a feminine noun derived from the root מָלַל (mālal, H4448), meaning 'to speak' or 'to utter.' The form suggests it is a 'speaking' or 'that which is spoken.' It is related to the more common word for word, דָּבָר (dābār, H1697), but מִלָּה often carries a nuance of a distinct, articulated utterance, sometimes in a formal or contentious context.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it highlights the power and substance of speech, especially in the context of divine revelation and human wisdom. In 2 Samuel 23:2, David attributes his psalm to the 'word' (מִלָּה) of the Lord upon his tongue, linking it directly to prophecy. In Job, the extensive debate over the truth and comfort of 'words' underscores themes of human limitation, the search for wisdom, and the ultimate authority of God's speech. Understanding this Hebrew term enriches reading by emphasizing that words are not just sounds but carry weight, truth-claims, and, in the case of Scripture, divine authority.

In ancient Israelite culture, spoken words were considered powerful and substantive, not merely symbolic. A 'word' (מִלָּה) was an active force, especially in legal disputes, wisdom teachings, and prophetic declarations. The frequent use in Job's debates reflects the high cultural value placed on eloquent, reasoned speech in seeking truth and offering counsel, contrasting with modern tendencies to see words as more disposable.

דָּבָר (dābār, H1697) — A more general and common term for 'word,' 'thing,' or 'matter,' with a broader semantic range. אִמְרָה (ʾimrâ, H565) — Often 'saying' or 'command,' with a poetic and authoritative flavor, frequently used for God's utterances. עֵצָה (ʿēṣâ, H6098) — 'Counsel' or 'advice,' focusing on the deliberative aspect rather than the utterance itself.

Word Details

Scripture References