מָזִיחַ

מָזִיחַ

a belt (as movable)

Definition

The Hebrew noun מָזִיחַ (mâzîyach) refers to a belt or girdle, specifically one that is 'movable' or 'loosened,' indicating it is not permanently fixed but can be put on or taken off. In its three biblical occurrences, it primarily symbolizes a garment that secures or binds, often carrying metaphorical weight. In Job 12:21, it is used figuratively for the 'belt' or 'strength' of the mighty, which God loosens, depicting divine reversal of human power. In Psalm 109:19, it describes a curse clinging to the wicked like a permanent, oppressive girdle. Isaiah 23:10 uses it literally for the 'belt' of Tarshish, representing maritime commerce and strength being removed.

Biblical Usage

This word appears only three times in the Old Testament, each in poetic or prophetic literature (Job, Psalms, Isaiah). Its usage is consistently metaphorical or symbolic, never merely describing a mundane clothing item. In Job 12:21, it metaphorically represents the 'strength' or authority of leaders. In Psalm 109:19, it symbolizes a curse that binds the wicked. In Isaiah 23:10, it represents the commercial power and restraint of the Phoenician city of Tyre. The pattern shows it conveys concepts of binding, strength, and their removal or inversion.

Etymology

Derived from the root זָחַח (zāchach, H2118), meaning 'to remove,' 'to displace,' or 'to draw away.' This root conveys motion or loosening. The noun form מָזִיחַ thus carries the sense of something that is 'loosened' or 'movable,' fitting its description as a belt that can be put on or taken off. The related form מֵזַח (mēzach) appears to be a variant. The etymology underscores the item's function as a detachable binding.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it illustrates God's sovereignty in humbling human power (Job 12:21) and the binding nature of sin and curse (Psalm 109:19). It enriches the reading of these passages by showing that the 'belt' is not just clothing but a symbol of strength, authority, or a binding condition that God can alter. Understanding this Hebrew term deepens the imagery of divine reversal and the inescapable consequences of wickedness. In ancient Near Eastern culture, a belt or girdle was a practical garment for securing robes, but it also symbolized readiness, strength, and authority (similar to a soldier's belt). A 'loosened' belt could indicate disgrace, helplessness, or the removal of power. This cultural understanding makes the metaphorical uses in Job, Psalms, and Isaiah more potent, as audiences would immediately grasp the imagery of strength being undone or a curse being fastened tightly upon someone. אַבְנֵט (ʼavnēṭ, H73) — a priestly sash or belt, often ornate and ceremonial. חֲגוֹר (chăgôr, H2290) — a common girdle or belt for clothing, often of leather. אֵזוֹר (ʼêzôr, H232) — a waistcloth or inner girdle, sometimes symbolic of truth or righteousness.

Word Details