Isaiah 25:4 — Word Study
WLCכִּֽי־ הָיִ֨יתָ מָע֥וֹז לַדָּ֛ל מָע֥וֹז לָאֶבְי֖וֹן בַּצַּר־ ל֑וֹ מַחְסֶ֤ה מִזֶּ֙רֶם֙ צֵ֣ל מֵחֹ֔רֶב כִּ֛י ר֥וּחַ עָרִיצִ֖ים כְּזֶ֥רֶם קִֽיר׃
BSAForkîy You have beenhâyâh■ a refugemâʻôwz [stronghold, refuge] for the poordal [needy, oppressed] a strongholdmâʻôwz [security] for the needyʼebyôwn [weak, afflicted] in distresstsar [trouble, hard circumstances] a refugemachăçeh [shelter, haven] from the stormzerem [tempest, whirlwind] a shadetsêl [shadow] from the heatchôreb [drought, desolation] Forkîy the breathrûwach [spirit, wind] of the ruthlessʻârîyts [cruel, terrible ones] is like rainzerem [a storm] against a wallqîyr [barrier, obstacle]
| Greek | English | Parsing |
|---|---|---|
| כִּֽי־ | for | Particle |
| הָיִ֨יתָ | you have been | Verb, Qal, perfect second person masculine singular |
| מָע֥וֹז | a refuge | Noun common, masculine singular absolute |
| לַדָּ֛ל | for the poor [person] | Preposition |
| מָע֥וֹז | a refuge | Noun common, masculine singular absolute |
| לָאֶבְי֖וֹן | for the needy [person] | Preposition |
| בַּצַּר־ | when it was distress | Preposition |
| ל֑וֹ | to him | Preposition, suffix |
| מַחְסֶ֤ה | a shelter | Noun common, masculine singular absolute |
| מִזֶּ֙רֶם֙ | from rainstorm | Preposition, noun common masculine singular absolute |
| צֵ֣ל | a shade | Noun common, masculine singular absolute |
| מֵחֹ֔רֶב | from heat | Preposition, noun common masculine singular absolute |
| כִּ֛י | for | Particle |
| ר֥וּחַ | [the] breath of | Noun common, feminine singular construct |
| עָרִיצִ֖ים | ruthless [people] | Adj |
| כְּזֶ֥רֶם | [is] like a rainstorm of | Preposition, noun common masculine singular construct |
| קִֽיר׃ | a wall | Noun common, masculine singular absolute |
Every word in the verse. Click a row to open it in the panel on the left.
| BSB | For You have been a refuge for the poor, a stronghold for the needy in distress, a refuge from the storm, a shade from the heat. For the breath of the ruthless is like rain against a wall, |
| KJV | For thou hast been a strength to the poor, a strength to the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, a shadow from the heat, when the blast of the terrible ones is as a storm against the wall. |
| ASV | For thou hast been a stronghold to the poor, a stronghold to the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, a shade from the heat, when the blast of the terrible ones is as a storm against the wall. |
| YLT | For Thou hast been a stronghold for the poor, A stronghold for the needy in his distress, A refuge from storm, a shadow from heat, When the spirit of the terrible [is] as a storm — a wall. |
| WEB | For you have been a stronghold to the poor, a stronghold to the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, a shade from the heat, when the blast of the dreaded ones is like a storm against the wall. |
| BBE | For you have been a strong place for the poor and the crushed in their trouble, a safe place from the storm, a shade from the heat, when the wrath of the cruel ones is like a winter storm. |
Where they part company is עָרִיצִ֖ים — see How Translations Differ.
The verse features two main clauses, each introducing a series of descriptive phrases that elaborate on God's protective nature.
8 commentators on this verse
Gill, Jamieson, Poole, Trapp & more — read them ›
clause
verbהָיָה
The sentence as the grammar sees it Open the tree ›
Every word here is used elsewhere in the Old Testament.
Bars are logarithmic — אֵת, the commonest word in the Hebrew Bible, stands about 11,000 times, so a linear scale would leave everything else invisible. Click a row to open that word.
Deep Study — Isaiah 25:4
Sections marked generated are written from the data on this page rather than by a named author. Everything else — the lexicon entries, the cross references, the manuscript readings, the counts — is quoted from its source unchanged.
Context — God as Refuge for the Needygenerated
Isaiah 25:4 emphasizes God's protective nature, illustrating His role as a refuge and stronghold for those who are poor and in distress. This verse is part of a larger passage that contrasts the fate of the righteous with that of the ruthless, highlighting God's care for the vulnerable amidst societal turmoil. The surrounding verses further develop this theme by depicting God's ultimate triumph over oppressive powers.
Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Isaiah 11:4 | but with righteousness He will judge the poor, and with equity He will decide for the lowly of the earth. He will strike the earth with the rod of His mouth and slay the wicked with the breath of His lips. |
| 2 | Isaiah 14:32 | What answer will be given to the envoys of that nation? “The LORD has founded Zion, where His afflicted people will find refuge.” |
| 3 | Isaiah 29:19 | The humble will increase their joy in the LORD, and the poor among men will rejoice in the Holy One of Israel. |
| 4 | Isaiah 33:2 | O LORD, be gracious to us! We wait for You. Be our strength every morning and our salvation in time of trouble. |
| 5 | Isaiah 66:2 | Has not My hand made all these things? And so they came into being,” declares the LORD. “This is the one I will esteem: he who is humble and contrite in spirit, who trembles at My word. |
The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge — 19 references, hung on the phrase they belong to
The Key Word — מָע֥וֹז, ma.'ozgenerated
The word מָע֥וֹז (ma`owz) signifies a stronghold or refuge, emphasizing safety and protection. It is a noun that conveys both physical and metaphorical security, often associated with divine protection. The parsing indicates it is a masculine singular noun, suggesting a specific place or means of safety.
This term appears frequently in contexts where God is depicted as a protector, reinforcing the idea of Him as a stronghold for those in need. The root of the word is linked to strength and fortification, which enhances its meaning as a source of security.
How Translations Differ — measured against the Berean Standard Biblegenerated
This study reads the verse in the Berean Standard Bible, so the BSB is the wording every comparison below is made against. The BSB has refuge and stronghold, which are also found in the KJV and ASV, maintaining the protective connotations of מָע֥וֹז.
Where translations differ is in the rendering of עָרִיצִ֖ים. The ASV, KJV, and others use terrible ones, while the BBE opts for cruel, reflecting different interpretations of the original Hebrew.
Sentence Structuregenerated
The verse consists of multiple clauses, with the finite verb הָיִ֨יתָ (you have been) serving as the anchor. It introduces a series of noun phrases that describe God's roles: a refuge for the poor, a stronghold for the needy, and a shelter from the storm.
The structure emphasizes God's provision in times of distress, with each phrase building upon the last to create a comprehensive picture of divine protection.
Septuagint Backgroundgenerated
In the Septuagint, מָע֥וֹז is rendered as βοηθὸς (boēthos), meaning 'helper' or 'support.' This choice broadens the concept of refuge to include active assistance, highlighting God's role not just as a place of safety but as a source of help in times of trouble.
The translation reflects a nuanced understanding of God's protective nature, aligning with the broader themes of divine support found throughout the Septuagint.
In plain words — the whole versegenerated
Isaiah 25:4 tells us that God has been a refuge and stronghold for the poor and needy in times of distress. He provides shelter from storms and shade from heat, showing His care for those who are vulnerable. The verse contrasts God's protection with the threats posed by ruthless people, emphasizing His role as a protector.
Frequently Asked Questionsgenerated
This means that God provides safety and support for those who are vulnerable and in need, offering them protection from harm and distress.
The verse highlights God's commitment to caring for the oppressed, contrasting His protection with the actions of ruthless individuals, which underscores the theme of divine justice.
The storms mentioned can be understood both literally, as in natural disasters, and metaphorically, as the troubles and challenges faced by individuals in life.
We can find refuge in God through prayer, trust in His promises, and by seeking His guidance during difficult times.
Reflection Questionsgenerated
- In what areas of your life do you feel the need for God's refuge and protection?
- How can you be a source of refuge for others who are in distress?
- What does it mean to you that God is described as a stronghold for the needy?
- How can you rely on God's shelter during life's storms?
Commentators on this verse — 8 expositors, verse by verse
Each of these wrote on Isaiah 25:4 itself, not merely on the chapter around it.
John Gill1697–1771Gill's Exposition of the Entire BibleFor thou hast been a strength to the poor, a strength to the needy in his distress,.... The people of God, who are poor and needy, both in a literal and in a spiritual sense; and especially when
Read John Gill on Isaiah 25 →Robert Jamieson1802–1880Jamieson, Fausset, and Brown's CommentaryFor thou hast been a strength to the poor, a strength to the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, a shadow from the heat, when the blast of the terrible ones is as a storm against the wall.
Read Robert Jamieson on Isaiah 25 →Matthew Poole1624–1679Matthew Poole's Commentary on the Holy BibleFor thou hast been a strength to the poor, & c.; for thou hast defended thy poor and helpless people against the fiercest assaults of their enemies. When the blast of the terrible one is as a storm against the wall; or, for (as this particle commonly signifies; or rather, therefore, as it is frequently used, because thou art their defender) the blast of the terrible, or strong, or violent one, was like a storm (of hail, or rain, or wind) against a wall, which makes a great and terrible noise, but without any effect, for the wall stands firm in spite of it. It is probable the prophet in these words had a special respect to that miraculous deliverance of Jerusalem from the rage and attempt of…
Read Matthew Poole on Isaiah 25 →John Trapp1601–1669Trapp's Complete Commentary on the Old and New TestamentsIsaiah 25:4 For thou hast been a strength to the poor, a strength to the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, a shadow from the heat, when the blast of the terrible ones [is] as a storm [against] the wall.Ver. 4. For thou hast been a strength to the poor,] &c. That is, thou hast protected thy poor people from the persecution of the Antichristian rout, saith Piscator. Great is God’ s mercy in succouring his oppressed ones. This is here set forth by a double comparison: first, A refuge from the storm, a shadow from the heat, &c.] Where the Church’ s enemies are compared to raging waters, that bear down all before them; God to a place of refuge to fly unto. Secondly, Christ is a…
Read John Trapp on Isaiah 25 →Charles John Ellicott1819–1905Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers(4) Thou hast been a strength . . .—Literally, a fortress. The fierceness of the oppressor is represented by the intolerable heat, and the fierce tornado of an eastern storm, dashing against the wall, threatening it with destruction. From that storm the faithful servants of the Lord should find shelter as in the castle of the great King.
Read Charles John Ellicott on Isaiah 25 →AdamClarkeAdam Clarke's Commentary on the BibleVerse 4. As a storm against the wall - "Like a winter - storm."] For קיר kir, read קור kor: or, as עיר ir from ערר arar, קיר kir from קרר karar. - Capellus.
Read AdamClarke on Isaiah 25 →CambridgeThe Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges1–5. The writer of the psalm, speaking in the name of the believing community, praises God for His wonderful providence (Isaiah 25:1) manifested in the overthrow of Israel’s enemies (2, 3) and in the mercy vouchsafed to the nation in a time of trouble (4, 5).
Read Cambridge on Isaiah 25 →Albert Barnes1798–1870Barnes' Notes on the BibleFor thou hast been a strength to the poor - Thou hast sustained and upheld them in their trials, and hast delivered them. God is often spoken of as the strength of his people.
Read Albert Barnes on Isaiah 25 →The verse in English, compared — 17 translations, and where they part company
Every translation on this page is a decision someone had to make and commit to. Read down a column and you see one translator's judgement; read across a row and you see the range the Greek actually allows. The BSB is the wording the rest of this page is measured against, so it is listed first.
Modern formal
For You have been a refuge for the poor, a stronghold for the needy in distress, a refuge from the storm, a shade from the heat. For the breath of the ruthless is like rain against a wall,
For you have been a stronghold to the poor, a stronghold to the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, a shade from the heat, when the blast of the dreaded ones is like a storm against the wall.
For You have been a refuge for the poor, a stronghold for the needy in distress, a refuge from the storm, a shade from the heat. For the breath of the ruthless is like rain against a wall,
For you are a protector for the poor, a protector for the needy in their distress, a shelter from the rainstorm, a shade from the heat. Though the breath of tyrants is like a winter rainstorm,
Tyndale line
For thou hast been a strength to the poor, a strength to the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, a shadow from the heat, when the blast of the terrible ones is as a storm against the wall.
For thou hast been a stronghold to the poor, a stronghold to the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, a shade from the heat, when the blast of the terrible ones is as a storm against the wall.
For thou hast been a strong hold to the poor, a strong hold to the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, a shadow from the heat, when the blast of the terrible ones is as a storm against the wall.
For thou hast been a defense to the poor, a defense to the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, a shade from the heat, when the blast of the terrible ones is as a storm against the wall.
For thou hast bene a strength vnto the poore, euen a strength to the needie in his trouble, a refuge against the tempest, a shadow against the heate: for the blaste of the mightie is like a storme against the wall.
Strictly literal
For thou hast been a fortress to the poor, a fortress for the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, a shadow from the heat: for the blast of the terrible ones [has been] as the storm [against] a wall.
For Thou hast been a stronghold for the poor, A stronghold for the needy in his distress, A refuge from storm, a shadow from heat, When the spirit of the terrible [is] as a storm — a wall.
For You have been a stronghold for the poor, || A stronghold for the needy in his distress, || A refuge from storm, a shadow from heat, || When the spirit of the terrible [is] as a storm—a wall.
For thou hast become a stronghold to the poor, a stronghold to the needy when he is distressed; a protection from the tempest, a shadow from the heat; for the [wrathful] breath of the tyrants is like the tempest against a wall.
For you have been a place of safety for the one who is poor, a shelter for the one who is needy in his distress— a shelter from the storm and a shade from the heat. When the breath of the ruthless was like a storm against a wall,
From the Latin
Because thou hast been a strength to the poor, a strength to the needy in his distress: a refuge from the whirlwind, a shadow from the heat. For the blast of the mighty is like a whirlwind beating against a wall.
Simplified
But you have protected the poor and needy when they were in trouble, you shielded them from storms and shaded them from the heat. For the actions of brutal people are like rain beating against a wall,
For you have been a strong place for the poor and the crushed in their trouble, a safe place from the storm, a shade from the heat, when the wrath of the cruel ones is like a winter storm.
Word by word, the decisions they made
Counted from the translations carried on this site, not from a survey of every English Bible. A rendering shared by many versions is usually inherited rather than independently arrived at — the Tyndale line in particular runs through most of them.
The sentence as the grammar sees it — from the MACULA Hebrew treebank
This is not our own analysis: it is the scholarly syntax tree for the verse, showing how the clause actually holds together.
Boxes are the grammarian's groupings — clause, noun phrase, prepositional phrase.
The four witnesses to this verse — Masoretic, Septuagint, Samaritan, Qumran
The Masoretic Text is supported by the Dead Sea Scrolls, which closely align with its wording. Both the 1Qisaa and 1Q8 scrolls confirm the essential phrases, although some words in 1Q8 are partially restored. The Septuagint matches 10 of the 17 words, indicating a significant degree of agreement on the core message.
כִּֽי־ הָיִ֨יתָ מָע֥וֹז לַדָּ֛ל מָע֥וֹז לָאֶבְי֖וֹן בַּצַּר־ ל֑וֹ מַחְסֶ֤ה מִזֶּ֙רֶם֙ צֵ֣ל מֵחֹ֔רֶב כִּ֛י ר֥וּחַ עָרִיצִ֖ים כְּזֶ֥רֶם קִֽיר׃
10 of the 17 words are matched. This is the word-by-word correspondence, not the Septuagint's own sentence — its word order and its articles are its own.
כי הייתה מעוז לדל מעוז לאביון בצר ל׳ו ומחסה מזרם צל מחורב כי רוח עריצים כזרם קיר
17 words on the leather.
כי היית מעוז לדל [מעוז] [לאביון] [בצר] [ל׳ו] [מחסה] [מזרם] [צל] [מחרב] [כי] רוח עריצים כזרם קיר
6 words on the leather — 2 partly restored, 9 supplied entire by an editor.
Four traditions, not one. “On the leather” means the letters physically survive on the scroll, as against letters an editor has supplied to fill a hole in it — a restoration is a scholar’s reading, not a reading of the manuscript. Words in [square brackets] are supplied; the notes count them apart from what survives.
The map of this verse — what each word keeps company with
This is a map of two things, both counted rather than judged. Company kept: which words stand within three words of each of these, anywhere in the Hebrew Bible — the thicker the line, the more often the pair meet compared with chance. Built from: the words a word is made out of, taken from its own Strong’s entry. It is not a map of meaning: nothing here claims two words mean the same thing. Click any circle to see the numbers behind it.
Lexicons — every word in Isaiah 25:4
One dossier per word, with every reference work grouped by kind — Hebrew lexicons, morphology, Bible dictionaries, topical chains and the English of the translators themselves. The verse sits at the head of each block with the word under study lit, so you never lose your place. The panel above gives the short answer; this is the long one, and it is the part of the page worth indexing.
Every entry below is the lexicographer's own text. On the Hebrew: Brown-Driver-Briggs entire and its gloss set, Strong's Hebrew Dictionary, and Tyndale House's Translators Brief lexicon. Where a cell says a work has no entry, that work genuinely has none for this word.
כִּי (ki) is a conjunction primarily meaning 'that,' 'for,' or 'when.' It indicates causal relationships and can express conditions like 'if' or 'though.' The word is versatile, appearing in various contexts to convey certainty, exception, or concession. Notably, it can combine with other particles to modify its meaning, such as in the phrase כִּי אם־ (ki im), meaning 'that if.'
כִּי conj. that, for, when
that
Of time, when, of the past
elsewhere כִּי has a force approximating to if, though it usu. represents a case as more likely to occur than אִם
when or if, with a concessive force, i.e. though
Because, since
base
כִּי אם־
each part. retaining its independent force, and relating to a different clause:
that if
for if
(About 140 t.) the two particles being closely conjoined, and relating to the same clause—
limiting the prec. clause, except
the if being neglected, and treated as pleonastic, so that the clause is no longer a limitation of the preceding clause but a contradiction of it: but rather, but
after an oath, surely
base
כִּי עַל כֵּן forasmuch as
base
H3588a כִּי that, for, when . that
. . Of time, when, of the past
. elsewhere כִּי has a force approximating to if, though it usu. represents a case as more likely to occur than אִם
. when or if, with a concessive force, i.e. though
. Because, since
H3588b כִּי אם־ . each part. retaining its independent force, and relating to a different clause: . that if
. for if
. (About 140 t.) the two particles being closely conjoined, and relating to the same clause— . limiting the prec. clause, except
. the if being neglected, and treated as pleonastic, so that the clause is no longer a limitation of the preceding clause but a contradiction of it: but rather, but
. after an oath, surely
H3588c כִּי עַל כֵּן forasmuch as
3588 kiy kee
a primitive particle (the full form of the prepositional
prefix) indicating causal relations of all kinds, antecedent
or consequent; (by implication) very widely used as a relative
conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by
other particles annexed:--and, + (forasmuch, inasmuch,
where-)as, assured(-ly), + but, certainly, doubtless, + else,
even, + except, for, how, (because, in, so, than) that, +
nevertheless, now, rightly, seeing, since, surely, then,
therefore, + (al- )though, + till, truly, + until, when,
whether, while, whom, yea, yet.
כִּי (ki) — for.
1) that, for, because, when, as though, as, because that, but, then, certainly, except, surely, since
1a) that
1a1) yea, indeed
1b) when (of time)
1b1) when, if, though (with a concessive force)
1c) because, since (causal connection)
1d) but (after negative)
1e) that if, for if, indeed if, for though, but if
1f) but rather, but
1g) except that
1h) only, nevertheless
1i) surely
1j) that is
1k) but if
1l) for though
1m) forasmuch as, for therefore
כִּי [אם] (ki im) — that if: except.
1) except if
1a) but if
1b) even though
כִּי [עַל כֵּן] (ki [al ken]) — for as that: since.
1) that, for, because, when, as though, as, because that, but, then, certainly, except, surely, since
1a) that
1a1) yea, indeed
1b) when (of time)
1b1) when, if, though (with a concessive force)
1c) because, since (causal connection)
1d) but (after negative)
Conj — ParticleHTc
for (ki (conjunction), le, from 'el (preposition), and various other words. In the New Testament also the words are various, chiefly gar, kai gar, hoti (conjunctions); anti apo eis dia (accusative), epi (dative and accusative), peri (genitive), pros (genitive and accusative), huper (genitive) (prepositions)): the English Revised Version and the American Standard Revised Version give in many cases more literal or more accurate renderings than those in the King James Version.
In the New Testament the most important preps. from a doctrinal point of view are anti, "face to face," "over against," "instead," "on behalf of," peri, "around," "about," "concerning," huper, "over," "on behalf of." The first has been claimed as stating the substitutionary nature of Christ's sacrifice as contrasted with huper and peri, more frequently used of it. But, although anti in the New Testament often means…
The Hebrew word הָיָה (hayah) is a primitive root meaning to exist or become, and it encompasses a range of meanings including to happen, occur, and come to pass. It is often used in narrative contexts, particularly in phrases like "and it came to pass." The word can also denote a state of being or existence, and it appears frequently in various forms throughout the Old Testament.
הָיָה 3570 vb. fall out, come to pass, become, be
Qal
Fall out, happen
occur, take place, come about, come to pass
esp. & very oft., come about, come to pass
וַיְהִי and it came to pass that, most often (c. 292 t.)
rarely also Pf. c. וְ conj. וְהָיָה
less oft. וְהָיָה Pf. consec. and it shall come to pass, or frequentat. came to pass (repeatedly, etc.)
Come into being, become
abs., in lively narrative, arise, appear, come
sq. prep.
become
sq. pred. noun (to be viewed as implicit accus.)
sq. pred. adj.
become like
sq. pred. לְ pers.
sq. לְ pred.
oft. c. לְ pred. לְ pers.
with עַל and לְ
sts. c. לְ pers. only = became the property of, come into the possession of
Be (often with subbordinate idea of becoming)
exist, be in existence
abide, remain, continue
with word of locality, be in or at a place, be situated, stand, lie
as copula, joining subj. & pred.
H1961 הָיָה fall out, come to pass, become, be .. . . Fall out, happen
. occur, take place, come about, come to pass
. esp. & very oft., come about, come to pass . . וַיְהִי and it came to pass that, most often (c. 292 t.)
. rarely also Pf. c. וְ conj. וְהָיָה
. less oft. וְהָיָה Pf. consec. and it shall come to pass, or frequentat. came to pass (repeatedly, etc.)
. Come into being, become . . abs., in lively narrative, arise, appear, come
. sq. prep.
. become . sq. pred. noun (to be viewed as implicit accus.)
. sq. pred. adj.
. become like
. sq. pred. + לְ pers.
. sq. לְ pred.
. oft. c. לְ pred. + לְ pers.
. with עַל and לְ
. sts. c. לְ pers. only = became the property of, come into the possession of
. Be (often with subbordinate idea of becoming) . exist, be in existence
. abide, remain, continue
1961 hayah haw-yaw
a primitive root (compare 1933); to exist, i.e. be or become,
come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or
auxiliary):--beacon, X altogether, be(-come), accomplished,
committed, like), break, cause, come (to pass), do, faint,
fall, + follow, happen, X have, last, pertain, quit
(one-)self, require, X use.
see HEBREW for 01933
הָיָה (ha.yah) — to be.
1) to be, become, come to pass, exist, happen, fall out
1a) (Qal)
1a1) ---
1a1a) to happen, fall out, occur, take place, come about, come to pass
1a1b) to come about, come to pass
1a2) to come into being, become
1a2a) to arise, appear, come
1a2b) to become
1a2b1) to become
1a2b2) to become like
1a2b3) to be instituted, be established
1a3) to be
1a3a) to exist, be in existence
1a3b) to abide, remain, continue (with word of place or time)
1a3c) to stand, lie, be in, be at, be situated (with word of locality)
1a3d) to accompany, be with
1b) (Niphal)
1b1) to occur, come to pass, be done, be brought about
1b2) to be done, be finished, be gone
V-Qal-Perf-2ms — Verb · Qal · perfect second person masculine singularHVqp2ms
מָעוֹז (ma`owz) refers to a place or means of safety and protection, often implying a stronghold or refuge. It can denote both a physical fortified place and a figurative sense of security, such as divine protection. The term is built from the root associated with strength and fortification.
מָעוֹז n.m. place or means of safety, protection
base
H4581 מָעוֹז place or means of safety, protection
4581 ma`owz maw-oze'
(also mauwz {maw-ooz'}); or mahoz {maw-oze'} (also ma,uz
{maw-ooz'}; from 5810; a fortified place; figuratively, a
defence:--force, fort(-ress), rock, strength(-en), (X most)
strong (hold).
see HEBREW for 05810
מָעוֹז (ma.oz) — security.
1) place or means of safety, protection, refuge, stronghold
1a) place of safety, fastness, harbour, stronghold
1b) refuge (of God) (fig.)
1c) human protection (fig.)
N-ms — Noun common · masculine singular absoluteHNcmsa
ref'-uj: A place of resort and safety. The principal words in the Old Testament are machceh (Ps 14:6; 46:1; 62:7,8; Isa 4:6, etc.), and manoc (2Sa 22:3; Ps 59:16, etc.), both applied chiefly to God as a "refuge" for His people. For the King James Version "refuge" in De 33:27, the Revised Version (British and American) has "dwelling-place," and in Ps 9:9, "high tower." Conversely, the Revised Version (British and American) has "refuge" for the King James Version "shelter" in Ps 61:3, and "hope" in
→ CITIES OF
From the avenger of blood Ex 21:13,14; Nu 35:11-32; De 4:41-43; 19:2-13; Jos 20:1-6
The Hebrew word דַּל (dal) is built from the root meaning 'dangling' or 'weak.' It covers a range of meanings including low, weak, poor, and thin, and is particularly noted in wisdom literature and poetry. The entries consistently emphasize its connotations of neediness and weakness.
דַּל adj. low, weak, poor, thin (especially common in Wisd. lit. and poet.)
base
H1800 דַּל low, weak, poor, thin (especially common in Wisd. lit. and poet.)
1800 dal dal
from 1809; properly, dangling, i.e. (by implication) weak or
thin:--lean, needy, poor (man), weaker.
see HEBREW for 01809
דַּל (dal) — poor.
low, poor, weak, thin, one who is low
Prep | Adj — PrepositionHRd/Aamsa
מָעוֹז (ma`owz) refers to a place or means of safety and protection, often implying a stronghold or refuge. It can denote both a physical fortified place and a figurative sense of security, such as divine protection. The term is built from the root associated with strength and fortification.
מָעוֹז n.m. place or means of safety, protection
base
H4581 מָעוֹז place or means of safety, protection
4581 ma`owz maw-oze'
(also mauwz {maw-ooz'}); or mahoz {maw-oze'} (also ma,uz
{maw-ooz'}; from 5810; a fortified place; figuratively, a
defence:--force, fort(-ress), rock, strength(-en), (X most)
strong (hold).
see HEBREW for 05810
מָעוֹז (ma.oz) — security.
1) place or means of safety, protection, refuge, stronghold
1a) place of safety, fastness, harbour, stronghold
1b) refuge (of God) (fig.)
1c) human protection (fig.)
N-ms — Noun common · masculine singular absoluteHNcmsa
ref'-uj: A place of resort and safety. The principal words in the Old Testament are machceh (Ps 14:6; 46:1; 62:7,8; Isa 4:6, etc.), and manoc (2Sa 22:3; Ps 59:16, etc.), both applied chiefly to God as a "refuge" for His people. For the King James Version "refuge" in De 33:27, the Revised Version (British and American) has "dwelling-place," and in Ps 9:9, "high tower." Conversely, the Revised Version (British and American) has "refuge" for the King James Version "shelter" in Ps 61:3, and "hope" in
→ CITIES OF
From the avenger of blood Ex 21:13,14; Nu 35:11-32; De 4:41-43; 19:2-13; Jos 20:1-6
The Hebrew word אֶבְיוֹן (*ebyown*) means needy or poor, derived from a root indicating want. It describes individuals who are destitute, oppressed, or in need of help, particularly from God. This term appears in various contexts in the Old Testament, often referring to the lowest social class and the importance of caring for such individuals.
אֶבְיוֹן adj. in want, needy, poor,—so, alw. abs., Dt 15:4 + 40 t.; אֶבְיֹנְךָ Ex 23:6 Dt 15:11; אֶבְיוֹנִים Am 4:1 + 14 t.; אֶבְיוֹנֵי (אֶבְיֹנֵי) Ex 23:11 Is 29:19; אֶבְיוֹנֶיהָ ψ 132:15—(Hex. only JED; mostly poet., 23 t. ψ) needy, chiefly poor (in material things); as adj. Dt 15:7, 7, 9; 24:14 ψ 109:16 (both ∥ עָנִי); elsewhere subst.; ψ 49:3 (∥ עָשִׁיר); Dt 15:4, 11; subj. to oppression & abuse Am 2:6…
Read the full entry →H34 אֶבְיוֹן in want, needy, poor
34 'ebyown eb-yone'
from 14, in the sense of want (especially in feeling);
destitute:--beggar, needy, poor (man).
see HEBREW for 014
אֶבְיוֹן (ev.yon) — needy.
1) in want, needy, chiefly poor, needy person
2) subject to oppression and abuse
3) needing help, deliverance from trouble, especially as delivered by God
4) general reference to lowest class
Prep | Adj — PrepositionHRd/Aamsa
The Hebrew word צַר (tsar) is built from the root meaning 'narrow' or 'tight.' It encompasses a range of meanings including 'distress,' 'adversary,' and 'hard pebble' or 'flint.' The term can refer to physical tightness or metaphorical trouble, as well as an enemy or foe. It appears in contexts of anguish and tribulation, with a specific verse reference in Isaiah 5:28.
צַר adj. narrow, tight
base
צַר n.[m.] straits, distress
base
צַר 68 n.m. adversary, foe
base
צַר n.[m.] hard pebble, flint;—Is 5:28
ref
H6862a צַר narrow, tight H6862b צַר straits, distress H6862c צַר adversary, foe H6862d צַר hard pebble, flint
6862 tsar tsar
or tsar {tsawr}; from 6887; narrow; (as a noun) a tight place
(usually figuratively, i.e. trouble); also a pebble (as in
6864); (transitive) an opponent (as crowding):--adversary,
afflicted(-tion), anguish, close, distress, enemy, flint, foe,
narrow, small, sorrow, strait, tribulation, trouble.
see HEBREW for 06887
see HEBREW for 06864
צַר (tsar) — narrow.
narrow, tight
צַר (tsar) — distress.
straits, distress
צַר (tsar) — enemy.
adversary, foe, enemy, oppressor
צַר (tsar) — hard.
hard pebble, flint
Prep | Adj — PrepositionHRd/Aamsa
וֹ (o) — him.
Personal object pronoun - suffix for propositions and verbs without an object: 3rd person masculine singular
HR/Sp3ms — Preposition · suffixHR/Sp3ms
מַחְסֶּה (machaceh) refers to a refuge or shelter, both literally and figuratively. It conveys meanings of protection from danger or storms, and can also imply a place of trust or hope. The word is derived from a root meaning to cover or protect, and is used in contexts that emphasize safety.
מַחְסֶּה n.m. refuge, shelter
base
H4268 מַחְסֶּה refuge, shelter
4268 machaceh makh-as-eh'
or machceh {makh-seh'}; from 2620; a shelter (literally or
figuratively):--hope, (place of) refuge, shelter, trust.
see HEBREW for 02620
מַחְסֶּה (ma.cha.seh) — refuge.
1) refuge, shelter
1a) from rain or storm, from danger
1b) of falsehood
N-ms — Noun common · masculine singular absoluteHNcmsa
זֶ֫רֶם (zerem) refers to a flood of rain or a storm, encompassing meanings like downpour and rain-shower. It is derived from the root word for a gush of water. The entries consistently describe it as related to intense rain events.
זֶ֫רֶם n.m. flood of rain, rain-storm, downpour
base
H2230 זֶ֫רֶם flood of rain, rain-storm, downpour
2230 zerem zeh'-rem
from 2229; a gush of water:--flood, overflowing, shower,
storm, tempest.
see HEBREW for 02229
זֶ֫רֶם (ze.rem) — storm.
rain-shower, thunderstorm, flood of rain, downpour, rain-storm
Prep | N-ms — Preposition · noun common masculine singular absoluteHR/Ncmsa
צֵל (tsel) means 'shadow' or 'shade,' encompassing both literal and figurative uses. It can refer to a physical shadow, as well as a protective shade or a symbol of life's transience. The word is derived from a root meaning to shade, and it is related to another term, צֵלֶל (tselel), which also means 'shadow.'
H6738 צֵל shadow
6738 tsel tsale
from 6751; shade, whether literal or figurative:--defence,
shade(-ow).
see HEBREW for 06751
צֵל (tsel) — shadow.
1) shadow, shade
1a) shadow (on dial)
1b) shadow, shade (as protection)
1c) shadow (symbolic of transitoriness of life)
Also means: tse.lel (צֵלֶל "shadow" H6752)
N-ms — Noun common · masculine singular absoluteHNcmsa
חֹ֫רֶב (choreb) refers to concepts of dryness and desolation, encompassing meanings such as drought, heat, and parching conditions. It is built from the idea of being dry or desolate, and can denote both physical and metaphorical states of barrenness. The entries consistently highlight these themes without significant disagreement.
חֹ֫רֶב n.m. dryness, drought, heat
dryness
drought
parching heat
base
חֹ֫רֶב n.[m.] desolation
base
H2721a חֹ֫רֶב dryness, drought, heat . dryness
. drought
. parching heat
H2721b חֹ֫רֶב desolation
2721 choreb kho'-reb
a collaterally form of 2719; drought or
desolation:--desolation, drought, dry, heat, X utterly, waste.
see HEBREW for 02719
חֹ֫רֶב (cho.rev) — drought.
1) dryness, drought, heat
1a) dryness
1b) drought
1c) parching heat
חֹ֫רֶב (cho.rev) — desolation.
desolation
Prep | N-ms — Preposition · noun common masculine singular absoluteHR/Ncmsa
het (chom, horebh, "drought," Job 30:30; Isa 4:6; 25:4; Jer 36:30; sharabh, Isa 49:10, translated in the Revised Version margin "mirage"; zestos, "fervent," Re 3:15, therme, Ac 28:3, kauma, Re 7:16, kauson, Mt 20:12; see MIRAGE):
1. Dreaded in Palestine:
The heat of the summer is greatly dreaded in Palestine, and as a rule the people rest under cover during the middle of the day, when the sun is hottest. There is no rain from May to October, and scarcely a cloud…
→ Jonah overcome with Jon 4:8
→ See SUNSTROKE
כִּי (ki) is a conjunction primarily meaning 'that,' 'for,' or 'when.' It indicates causal relationships and can express conditions like 'if' or 'though.' The word is versatile, appearing in various contexts to convey certainty, exception, or concession. Notably, it can combine with other particles to modify its meaning, such as in the phrase כִּי אם־ (ki im), meaning 'that if.'
כִּי conj. that, for, when
that
Of time, when, of the past
elsewhere כִּי has a force approximating to if, though it usu. represents a case as more likely to occur than אִם
when or if, with a concessive force, i.e. though
Because, since
base
כִּי אם־
each part. retaining its independent force, and relating to a different clause:
that if
for if
(About 140 t.) the two particles being closely conjoined, and relating to the same clause—
limiting the prec. clause, except
the if being neglected, and treated as pleonastic, so that the clause is no longer a limitation of the preceding clause but a contradiction of it: but rather, but
after an oath, surely
base
כִּי עַל כֵּן forasmuch as
base
H3588a כִּי that, for, when . that
. . Of time, when, of the past
. elsewhere כִּי has a force approximating to if, though it usu. represents a case as more likely to occur than אִם
. when or if, with a concessive force, i.e. though
. Because, since
H3588b כִּי אם־ . each part. retaining its independent force, and relating to a different clause: . that if
. for if
. (About 140 t.) the two particles being closely conjoined, and relating to the same clause— . limiting the prec. clause, except
. the if being neglected, and treated as pleonastic, so that the clause is no longer a limitation of the preceding clause but a contradiction of it: but rather, but
. after an oath, surely
H3588c כִּי עַל כֵּן forasmuch as
3588 kiy kee
a primitive particle (the full form of the prepositional
prefix) indicating causal relations of all kinds, antecedent
or consequent; (by implication) very widely used as a relative
conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by
other particles annexed:--and, + (forasmuch, inasmuch,
where-)as, assured(-ly), + but, certainly, doubtless, + else,
even, + except, for, how, (because, in, so, than) that, +
nevertheless, now, rightly, seeing, since, surely, then,
therefore, + (al- )though, + till, truly, + until, when,
whether, while, whom, yea, yet.
כִּי (ki) — for.
1) that, for, because, when, as though, as, because that, but, then, certainly, except, surely, since
1a) that
1a1) yea, indeed
1b) when (of time)
1b1) when, if, though (with a concessive force)
1c) because, since (causal connection)
1d) but (after negative)
1e) that if, for if, indeed if, for though, but if
1f) but rather, but
1g) except that
1h) only, nevertheless
1i) surely
1j) that is
1k) but if
1l) for though
1m) forasmuch as, for therefore
כִּי [אם] (ki im) — that if: except.
1) except if
1a) but if
1b) even though
כִּי [עַל כֵּן] (ki [al ken]) — for as that: since.
1) that, for, because, when, as though, as, because that, but, then, certainly, except, surely, since
1a) that
1a1) yea, indeed
1b) when (of time)
1b1) when, if, though (with a concessive force)
1c) because, since (causal connection)
1d) but (after negative)
Conj — ParticleHTc
for (ki (conjunction), le, from 'el (preposition), and various other words. In the New Testament also the words are various, chiefly gar, kai gar, hoti (conjunctions); anti apo eis dia (accusative), epi (dative and accusative), peri (genitive), pros (genitive and accusative), huper (genitive) (prepositions)): the English Revised Version and the American Standard Revised Version give in many cases more literal or more accurate renderings than those in the King James Version.
In the New Testament the most important preps. from a doctrinal point of view are anti, "face to face," "over against," "instead," "on behalf of," peri, "around," "about," "concerning," huper, "over," "on behalf of." The first has been claimed as stating the substitutionary nature of Christ's sacrifice as contrasted with huper and peri, more frequently used of it. But, although anti in the New Testament often means…
רוּחַ (ruach) means breath, wind, or spirit. It encompasses various meanings, including the breath of life, emotional disposition, and the spirit of God. The term can refer to both physical phenomena, like wind, and abstract concepts, such as moral character or mental acts. Notably, it is used frequently in the context of divine inspiration and the Holy Spirit.
רוּחַ 378 n.f. (less oft. m.) breath, wind, spirit
breath of mouth or nostrils (33 t.)
wind (117 t.)
spirit, as that which breathes quickly in animation or agitation = temper, disposition (76 t.)
spirit of the living, breathing being
spirit as seat of emotion
occasionally (and late) = seat or organ of mental acts
rarely of the will
רוּחַ esp. of moral character
spirit of God (94 t.)
base
H7307 רוּחַ breath, wind, spirit . breath of mouth or nostrils (33 t.)
. wind (117 t.)
. spirit, as that which breathes quickly in animation or agitation = temper, disposition (76 t.)
. spirit of the living, breathing being
. spirit as seat of emotion
. occasionally (and late) = seat or organ of mental acts
. rarely of the will
. רוּחַ esp. of moral character
. spirit of God (94 t.)
7307 ruwach roo'-akh
from 7306; wind; by resemblance breath, i.e. a sensible (or
even violent) exhalation; figuratively, life, anger,
unsubstantiality; by extension, a region of the sky; by
resemblance spirit, but only of a rational being (including
its expression and functions):--air, anger, blast, breath, X
cool, courage, mind, X quarter, X side, spirit((-ual)),
tempest, X vain, ((whirl-))wind(-y).
see HEBREW for 07306
רוּחַ (ru.ach) — spirit.
: spirit
1) wind, breath, mind, spirit
1a) breath
1b) wind
1b1) of heaven
1b2) quarter (of wind), side
1b3) breath of air
1b4) air, gas
1b5) vain, empty thing
1c) spirit (as that which breathes quickly in animation or agitation)
1c1) spirit, animation, vivacity, vigour
1c2) courage
1c3) temper, anger
1c4) impatience, patience
1c5) spirit, disposition (as troubled, bitter, discontented)
1c6) disposition (of various kinds), unaccountable or uncontrollable impulse
1c7) prophetic spirit
1d) spirit (of the living, breathing being in man and animals)
1d1) as gift, preserved by God, God's spirit, departing at death, disembodied being
1e) spirit (as seat of emotion)
1e1) desire
1e2) sorrow, trouble
1f) spirit
1f1) as seat or organ of mental acts
1f2) rarely of the will
1f3) as seat especially of moral character
N-cs — Noun common · feminine singular constructHNcfsc
ov:
(1) In Anglo-Saxon, had the meaning "from," "away from" (as the strengthened form "off" has still), and was not used for genitive or possessive relations, these being expressed by special case-forms. In the Norman period, however, "of" was taken to represent the French de (a use well developed by the time of Chaucer), and in the Elizabethan period both senses of "of" were in common use. But after about 1600 the later force of the word became predominant, and in the earlier sense (which is now practically obsolete) it was replaced by other prepositions. In consequence the King James Version (and in some cases the Revised Version (British and American)) contains many uses of "of" that are no longer familiar--most of them, to be sure, causing no difficulty, but there still being a few responsible for real obscurities.
OF, preposition ov. [Gr.]
1. From or out of; proceeding from, as the cause, source, means, author or agent bestowing.
I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered to you. 1 Corinthians 11:1.
For it was of the Lord to harden their hearts. Joshua 11:1.
It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed.
Lamentations 3:1.
The whole disposing thereof is of the Lord. Proverbs 16:1.
Go, inquire of the Lord for me. 2 Chronicles 34:2.
That holy thing that shall be born of thee. Luke 1:1.
Hence of is the sign of the genitive case, the case that denotes production; as the son of man, the son proceeding from man, produced from man. This is the primary sense, although we now say, produced by man. 'Part of these were slain; ' that is, a number separate, for part denotes a division; the sense then is, a number from or out of the whole were slain. So also, 'some of these were slain; ' that is…
עָרִיץ (ariyts) describes something that is awe-inspiring or terror-stricken, with connotations of being powerful, ruthless, or tyrannical. It is built from the root associated with fearfulness and strength. The range of meanings includes mighty, oppressive, and violent, reflecting a sense of great power.
עָרִיץ adj. awe-inspiring, terror-stricken
base
H6184 עָרִיץ awe-inspiring, terror-stricken
6184 `ariyts aw-reets'
from 6206; fearful, i.e. powerful or tyrannical:--mighty,
oppressor, in great power, strong, terrible, violent.
see HEBREW for 06206
עָרִיץ (a.rits) — ruthless.
awe-inspiring, terror-striking, awesome, terrifying, ruthless, mighty
Adj — AdjHAampa
pe'-p'-l: In English Versions of the Bible represents something over a dozen Hebrew and Greek words. Of these, in the Old Testament, `am, is overwhelmingly the most common (about 2,000 times), with le'om, and goy, next in order; but the various Hebrew words are used with very little or no difference in force (e.g. Pr 14:28; but, on the other hand, in Ps 44 contrast verses 12 and 14). Of the changes introduced by the Revised Version (British and American) the only one of significance (cited explicitly in the Preface to the English Revised Version) is the frequent use of the plural "peoples" (strangely avoided in the King James Version except Re 10:11; 17:15), where other nations than Israel are in question. So, for instance, in Ps…
זֶ֫רֶם (zerem) refers to a flood of rain or a storm, encompassing meanings like downpour and rain-shower. It is derived from the root word for a gush of water. The entries consistently describe it as related to intense rain events.
זֶ֫רֶם n.m. flood of rain, rain-storm, downpour
base
H2230 זֶ֫רֶם flood of rain, rain-storm, downpour
2230 zerem zeh'-rem
from 2229; a gush of water:--flood, overflowing, shower,
storm, tempest.
see HEBREW for 02229
זֶ֫רֶם (ze.rem) — storm.
rain-shower, thunderstorm, flood of rain, downpour, rain-storm
Prep | N-ms — Preposition · noun common masculine singular constructHR/Ncmsc
ov:
(1) In Anglo-Saxon, had the meaning "from," "away from" (as the strengthened form "off" has still), and was not used for genitive or possessive relations, these being expressed by special case-forms. In the Norman period, however, "of" was taken to represent the French de (a use well developed by the time of Chaucer), and in the Elizabethan period both senses of "of" were in common use. But after about 1600 the later force of the word became predominant, and in the earlier sense (which is now practically obsolete) it was replaced by other prepositions. In consequence the King James Version (and in some cases the Revised Version (British and American)) contains many uses of "of" that are no longer familiar--most of them, to be sure, causing no difficulty, but there still being a few responsible for real obscurities.
OF, preposition ov. [Gr.]
1. From or out of; proceeding from, as the cause, source, means, author or agent bestowing.
I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered to you. 1 Corinthians 11:1.
For it was of the Lord to harden their hearts. Joshua 11:1.
It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed.
Lamentations 3:1.
The whole disposing thereof is of the Lord. Proverbs 16:1.
Go, inquire of the Lord for me. 2 Chronicles 34:2.
That holy thing that shall be born of thee. Luke 1:1.
Hence of is the sign of the genitive case, the case that denotes production; as the son of man, the son proceeding from man, produced from man. This is the primary sense, although we now say, produced by man. 'Part of these were slain; ' that is, a number separate, for part denotes a division; the sense then is, a number from or out of the whole were slain. So also, 'some of these were slain; ' that is…
קִיר (qir) means 'wall' and can refer to the walls of a house, chamber, or altar sides. It is derived from a root that is not clearly defined. The word appears in contexts such as Isaiah 22:5, where it is used to describe a wall.
קִיר 74 n.m. wall (√ unknown)
base
H7023 קִיר wall (√ unknown)
7023 qiyr keer
or qir (Isa. 22:5) {keer}; or (feminine) qiyrah {kee-raw'};
from 6979; a wall (as built in a trench):--+ mason, side,
town, X very, wall.
see HEBREW for 06979
קִיר (qir) — wall.
1) wall, side
1a) wall (of house or chamber)
1b) the sides (of the altar)
N-ms — Noun common · masculine singular absoluteHNcmsa
wol.
See ARCHITECTURE; CITY; FORTIFICATION; HOUSE; JERUSALEM; VILLAGE.
Wall
Cities were surrounded by walls, as distinguished from “unwalled villages” (Ezek. 38:11; Lev. 25:29-34). They were made thick and strong (Num. 13:28; Deut. 3:5). Among the Jews walls were built of stone, some of those in the temple being of great size (1 Kings 6:7; 7:9-12; 20:30; Mark 13:1, 2). The term is used metaphorically of security and safety (Isa. 26:1; 60:18; Rev. 21:12-20). (See FENCE.)