מְתֹם

מְתֹם

wholesomeness; also (adverb) completely

Definition

The Hebrew word מְתֹם (mᵉthôm) primarily conveys the idea of 'wholesomeness' or 'soundness,' often in a physical sense. In Psalm 38:3 and Psalm 38:7, it describes the physical soundness of the psalmist's body, which has been compromised by God's discipline and illness. As an adverb, it can mean 'completely' or 'utterly,' as seen in Judges 20:48, where the Israelites completely destroy the Benjamite towns. The word thus bridges concepts of intact physical condition and the thoroughness of an action.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only four times in the Old Testament, appearing in narrative (Judges), poetry (Psalms), and prophecy (Isaiah). In Judges 20:48, it functions adverbially to describe the total destruction of cities. In the poetic laments of Psalm 38:3 and Psalm 38:7, it refers to the loss of physical soundness or health due to sin. Isaiah 1:6 uses it similarly, describing wounds that lack soundness or wholesomeness, emphasizing a state of corruption.

Etymology

מְתֹם is a noun derived from the root תָּמַם (tāmam, H8552), which means 'to be complete, finished, or blameless.' This root conveys integrity and wholeness. The form מְתֹם is a rare nominal derivative, focusing on the state or quality of being whole, sound, or complete. Its connection to the root underscores its meanings of intactness and thoroughness.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it connects physical wholeness with spiritual and moral concepts. In the Psalms and Isaiah, the lack of 'soundness' (מְתֹם) in the body is a metaphor for the corrosive effects of sin and divine judgment (Psalm 38:3, Isaiah 1:6). It points to the biblical idea that human brokenness is not merely physical but reflects a deeper need for restoration and completeness that only God can provide, foreshadowing themes of healing and redemption. In the ancient Israelite context, health and physical soundness were seen as blessings from God and signs of covenant faithfulness. A body lacking 'wholesomeness' (מְתֹם) was often interpreted as a visible sign of divine displeasure or the consequence of sin. This differs from a modern, purely medical view of illness, as it inherently linked physical condition to one's spiritual and relational standing before God. שָׁלוֹם (shālôm, H7965) — broader peace, wholeness, and well-being, not limited to physical soundness. תָּמִים (tāmîm, H8549) — blameless, complete, often used for moral integrity or sacrificial animals without defect.

Word Details