Lexical Summary ezuz: fierceness, power, strength Original Word: עֱזוּז Strong's Exhaustive Concordance might, strength From azaz; forcibleness -- might, strength. see HEBREW azaz NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom azaz Definition strength, might, fierceness NASB Translation fierceness (1), power (1), strength (1). Brown-Driver-Briggs עֱזוּז noun [masculine] strength, might, fierceness = עֹז; — construct מִלְחָמָה ׳ע Isaiah 42:25 fierceness of battle (from ׳י; + חֵמָה אַמּוֺ), נוֺרְאֹחֶיךָ ׳ע Psalm 145:6; suffix עֱזוּזוֺ וְנִפְלְאֹתָיו Psalm 78:4. Topical Lexicon Word Overview A vivid term denoting manifest strength or forceful might. In each appearance Scripture links it to the LORD’s acts—either celebrated for salvation or unleashed in judgment—inviting every generation to reckon with His undeniable power. Scriptural Contexts • Psalm 78:4 – “We will not hide them from their children, but will declare to the next generation the praises of the LORD and His power and the wonders He has done.” Divine Power in Redemptive History The two psalms recall decisive interventions—plagues in Egypt, the crossing of the Red Sea, wilderness provision, conquest of Canaan—events that formed Israel’s identity. The word underscores that these deeds were not merely extraordinary occurrences but revelations of the LORD’s active, personal strength on behalf of His covenant people. Isaiah 42:25 shows the same power pivoting from deliverance to discipline. The fiery judgment that fell on the covenant-breaking nation proves that the LORD’s might is morally charged; it rescues the obedient and consumes the rebellious. Exhortations to Testify Both psalmists treat this strength as public truth that must be vocalized. Parents are to pass it to children (Psalm 78:4); worshipers are to proclaim it to their contemporaries (Psalm 145:6). Silence would short-circuit covenant faithfulness, while testimony perpetuates trust in every generation. Consequences of Neglecting God’s Power Isaiah’s audience “did not take it to heart.” The same strength that parted seas can also ignite battle. Ignoring it hardens hearts and ensures heavier judgment. Thus every era is summoned to perceive and respond lest discipline replace deliverance. Theological Insights 1. God’s strength is self-existent; He never borrows power. Practical Application for Ministry • Preaching: Root gospel proclamation in divine acts, past and present, that display the same strength—culminating in the resurrection of Jesus Christ (Romans 1:4). Worship and Doxology Narrating the LORD’s might moves hearts from mere admiration to adoration. Psalm 145 demonstrates the natural progression: proclamation of power (“Men will proclaim…”) leads to praise of greatness (“I will declare Your greatness”). True worship integrates both mind and mouth, recounting works and magnifying the Worker. Christological Fulfillment In the New Testament the same divine might is revealed in Jesus Christ. His miracles mirror the Exodus wonders; His cross and resurrection are the supreme display of power in both salvation and judgment—delivering believers, condemning unbelief. The word’s Old Testament trajectory finds its telos in Him who is “the power of God and the wisdom of God” (1 Corinthians 1:24). Summary Whether rescuing, reigning, or rebuking, the LORD’s power remains steadfast. Scripture calls every generation to recount it, respond to it, and rest in it, confident that the One who acted with strength in the past will complete His purposes with the same irresistible might. Forms and Transliterations וֶעֱז֖וּז וֶעֱז֣וּז וֶעֱזוּז֥וֹ ועזוז ועזוזו veeZuz veezuZo we‘ĕzūz we‘ĕzūzōw we·‘ĕ·zū·zōw we·‘ĕ·zūzLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel TextsEnglishman's Concordance Psalm 78:4 HEB: תְּהִלּ֣וֹת יְהוָ֑ה וֶעֱזוּז֥וֹ וְ֝נִפְלְאוֹתָ֗יו אֲשֶׁ֣ר NAS: of the LORD, And His strength and His wondrous works KJV: of the LORD, and his strength, and his wonderful works INT: the praises of the LORD and his strength and his wondrous he Psalm 145:6 Isaiah 42:25 3 Occurrences |