מַאֲמָץ

מַאֲמָץ

strength, i.e. (plural) resources

Definition

The Hebrew noun מַאֲמָץ (maʼămâts) fundamentally means 'strength' or 'force.' In its singular usage in the Old Testament, it refers to the power or might that one possesses, particularly in the context of personal resources or capacity. The word appears only in Job 36:19, where Elihu asks, 'Will your cry for help avail to keep you from distress, or all the force of your strength?' (ESV). Here, it is paired with another term for strength, suggesting an intensive or comprehensive sense of one's available power or means. The term thus encapsulates the idea of the totality of one's personal resources or vigor that one might rely upon.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the entire Old Testament, in the poetic book of Job. In Job 36:19, it is employed in a rhetorical question within Elihu's speech, challenging Job's reliance on his own resources. The context is a discourse on divine discipline and human frailty, where 'force' or 'strength' (מַאֲמָץ) is presented as ultimately insufficient when compared to God's power and wisdom. Its pairing with another word for strength ('כֹּחַ, koach) in the verse emphasizes the exhaustive nature of human effort.

Etymology

מַאֲמָץ is a noun derived from the root אָמַץ (ʼamats, H553), which means 'to be strong, alert, or courageous.' This root is also the source for words like אֹמֶץ (ʼomets, H553), meaning 'strength' or 'might.' The noun form מַאֲמָץ carries the concrete sense of 'strength' as a resource or force, a development from the verbal idea of being strong or firm.

Semantic Range

Though used only once, this word contributes to the Book of Job's profound exploration of human limitation and divine sovereignty. It underscores the theme that human strength and resources (מַאֲמָץ) are inadequate in times of ultimate crisis or when facing God's majesty (Job 36:19). Understanding this Hebrew term enriches the reading of Elihu's argument, highlighting the futility of relying solely on one's own power instead of turning to God in humility. It connects to the broader biblical doctrine of human dependence on God's strength, as seen in passages like Isaiah 40:29-31. In the ancient Near Eastern context, strength and personal resources were highly valued, often associated with wealth, social standing, and military power. Elihu's rhetorical use of the term, however, subverts this cultural value by questioning its ultimate efficacy before God. The poetic pairing of synonyms for strength was a common Hebrew literary device to express totality or emphasis, which a modern reader might miss without understanding the original language. כֹּחַ (koach, H3581) — General term for strength, power, or ability, often used for physical or military might. אֹמֶץ (ʼomets, H553) — Another noun from the same root, meaning strength or courage, with a similar sense of firmness or vigor.

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