מַבָּט

מַבָּט

something expected, i.e. (abstractly) expectation

Definition

The Hebrew noun מַבָּט (mabbâṭ) refers to an expectation or something that is looked for, often with a sense of anxious waiting or hope. It is derived from the verb meaning 'to look,' and thus carries the nuance of a focused anticipation. In its three biblical occurrences, it describes the confident expectation of allies (Isaiah 20:5–6) and the anxious dread of a city awaiting its doom (Zechariah 9:5). The word can thus encompass both positive hope and fearful apprehension, depending on the context.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only three times in the Old Testament, all within prophetic literature. In Isaiah 20:5–6, it appears twice, describing the shattered 'expectation' or 'hope' of those who relied on the political alliance with Ethiopia and Egypt. In Zechariah 9:5, it denotes the anxious 'expectation' or 'dread' of the Philistine city of Ashkelon as it awaits judgment. The usage consistently involves the anticipation of a future outcome, whether hopeful or fearful, tied to geopolitical events.

Etymology

מַבָּט (mabbâט) is a noun derived from the root נָבַט (nāḇaṭ, H5027), meaning 'to look, regard, behold.' The noun form signifies the object or result of looking—that which is looked for or expected. Cognate words include תּוֹחֶלֶת (tôḥeleṯ, H8615), which also means 'hope' or 'expectation,' though תּוֹחֶלֶת often carries a more patient, enduring sense.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it captures the human posture of expectation before God, whether in misplaced hope (as in Isaiah's warning against political alliances) or in the dread of divine judgment (as in Zechariah). It reminds readers that where one places their 'expectation' is crucial—trust in human power leads to shame, while hope in God is secure. Understanding this Hebrew term enriches passages about hope and warning, highlighting the active, focused nature of biblical expectation. In the ancient Near East, political and military alliances were a primary source of national security. The 'expectation' (mabbâṭ) in Isaiah 20 reflects the common cultural practice of relying on powerful neighbors like Egypt for protection against Assyria. Its shattering was a profound cultural and psychological blow. Similarly, the 'expectation' of doom in Zechariah 9:5 reflects the terror cities felt when facing an unstoppable army, a common experience in that war-torn region. תּוֹחֶלֶת (tôḥeleṯ, H8615) — a more common term for hope or expectation, often with a connotation of patient waiting and trust. קַוָּה (qawwâ, H6960) — to wait for, hope for, often implying a tense or eager anticipation. תִּקְוָה (tiqwâ, H8615b) — hope, expectation, sometimes used for a literal 'cord' but metaphorically for something one holds onto.

Word Details