מִשְׁפָּת

מִשְׁפָּת

a stall for cattle (only dual)

Definition

The Hebrew noun מִשְׁפָּת (mishpâth) refers specifically to a stall or enclosure for cattle, appearing only in the dual form in the Old Testament. In Genesis 49:14, it describes the place where Issachar, likened to a strong donkey, 'crouches between the sheepfolds' (or 'burdens,' as some translations render it), picturing a tribe content in a settled, agricultural life. In Judges 5:16, the term is used in Deborah's song to rebuke Reuben for remaining 'among the sheepfolds' to listen to the pipings for the flocks, instead of joining the battle. The dual form likely indicates a pair of stalls or a double enclosure.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only twice in the Old Testament, both times in poetic contexts (the Blessing of Jacob and the Song of Deborah). It describes the physical location of animal pens, associated with pastoral life and settlement. In both instances (Genesis 49:14 and Judges 5:16), the 'stalls' or 'sheepfolds' symbolize a place of comfort, security, and potentially complacency, contrasted with the call to action or warfare.

Etymology

מִשְׁפָּת (mishpâth) is derived from the root שָׁפָה (H8192), meaning 'to sweep bare' or 'to scrape.' This suggests the original sense may have been a cleared or leveled area, which naturally developed into the meaning of an enclosed, prepared space for animals—a stall or fold.

Semantic Range

While a concrete noun for an animal enclosure, מִשְׁפָּת gains symbolic weight in its two appearances. In Genesis 49:14, it contributes to the characterization of the tribe of Issachar, highlighting themes of blessing, land, and tribal identity. In Judges 5:16, its use underscores a theological rebuke for choosing the safety of pastoral life over obedience to God's call to defend Israel. Thus, it subtly illustrates the tension between comfort and covenant responsibility. In ancient Israelite society, sheepfolds and cattle stalls were essential for protecting valuable livestock from predators and theft, especially at night. They were often simple stone-walled enclosures. The dual form (מִשְׁפָּתַיִם) may refer to a common design featuring two compartments or a particularly secure double enclosure. This concrete image of security makes its use as a metaphor for complacency in Judges 5:16 culturally powerful. אֵפֶר (ʾepher, H608) — a stall or crib for cattle, but more specifically for feeding. נָוֶה (nāweh, H5116) — a pasture, habitation, or pleasant abode for flocks, with a broader sense of a dwelling place.

Word Details