אֹמֶץ
strength
Definition
The Hebrew noun אֹמֶץ (ʼômets) refers to strength, specifically the inner strength of character, courage, or firmness of resolve. It denotes a quality of being strong-hearted or stout-hearted, implying moral fortitude and determination. In its single biblical occurrence in Job 17:9, it describes the righteous person who, despite suffering, maintains their integrity and grows stronger in their upright ways. The word conveys not just physical power but the strength of one's convictions and ethical stance.
Biblical Usage
This word is used only once in the entire Old Testament, in the book of Job. It appears in Job 17:9, where Job declares, 'Yet the righteous holds to his way, and he who has clean hands grows stronger and stronger.' Here, the term is used in a context of perseverance through intense suffering and adversity, highlighting the strengthening of moral and spiritual resolve in the face of calamity. Its singular usage makes it a unique and poignant term for describing the fortification of righteous character.
Etymology
אֹמֶץ (ʼômets) is a noun derived from the root verb אָמַץ (ʼāmats, H553), which means 'to be strong, alert, courageous, or bold.' This root conveys the idea of being physically strong, mentally determined, or morally firm. The noun form focuses on the state or quality of possessing such strength. Cognate words in related Semitic languages carry similar meanings of strength and firmness, confirming this core semantic field.
Semantic Range
Though used only once, אֹמֶץ carries significant theological weight in the context of theodicy and human suffering presented in the book of Job. It describes the paradoxical strengthening of the righteous person's character amidst divine silence and personal ruin. This challenges simplistic views of retribution, showing that true righteousness is not a guarantee of ease but can be a source of inner fortification. Understanding this Hebrew term enriches the reading of Job by highlighting that the 'strength' in view is not about overcoming circumstances but about unwavering commitment to integrity before God.
In ancient Israelite culture, strength was often viewed holistically, encompassing physical, moral, and spiritual dimensions. A 'strong' person was not merely physically powerful but also reliable, resolute, and of firm character. The use of אֹמֶץ in Job taps into this cultural understanding, portraying the ideal of the righteous individual whose inner constitution remains firm even when their external world collapses, which was a highly valued trait.
כֹּחַ (kōach, H3581) — General term for power, force, or capacity, often physical. חַיִל (chayil, H2428) — Strength, might, wealth, or ability; often used for military power or virtuous capability. עֹז (ʻōz, H5797) — Strength, might; often used of God's power or a place of safety. תּוּשִׁיָּה (tûshîyâh, H8454) — Sound wisdom, effective help; denotes a strength of understanding or resourcefulness.
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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