Lexical Summary motheq: sweetness Original Word: מֹתֶק Strong's Exhaustive Concordance sweetness From mathaq; sweetness -- sweetness. see HEBREW mathaq NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom mathoq Definition sweetness NASB Translation sweetness (1). Brown-Driver-Briggs [מֹ֫תֶק] noun [masculine] sweetness; — only suffix מָתְקִי Judges 9:11 my sweetness (fig-tree loquitur), i.e. sweetness of the fruit. Topical Lexicon Meaning and Literary Context The noun מֹתֶק appears once, within Jotham’s parable to the men of Shechem: “But the fig tree replied, ‘Should I stop my sweetness and my good fruit, and go to wave over the trees?’” (Judges 9:11). The scene contrasts trees called to kingship. The olive, fig, and vine—all noted for rich produce—decline the offer, preferring to continue supplying oil, sweetness, and wine. By choosing productivity over power, the fig tree’s מֹתֶק underscores the value of blessing rather than rule, exposing the folly of people who would ultimately choose the thorny bramble (Abimelech) for their king. Agricultural and Cultural Background In the land of Israel, the fig tree provided both nourishment and delight. Its fruit, eaten fresh or dried, was prized for flavor and energy. “Sweetness” therefore denoted tangible goodness accessible to every family. Refusing to abandon that sweetness, the fig tree embodies the farmer’s priorities: life-sustaining output over political ambition. Ancient hearers, dependent on seasonal harvests, would immediately recognize the parable’s practical wisdom. Moral and Theological Insights 1. Vocational Faithfulness: The fig tree’s answer teaches that worth is found in fulfilling God-given roles rather than seeking status. Related Biblical Themes of Sweetness • God’s Word: “They are sweeter than honey, than honey from the comb” (Psalm 19:10). As the fig’s sweetness refreshes the body, Scripture delights and nourishes the soul. Practical Ministry Application • Cultivate Sweet Character: “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace…” (Galatians 5:22). Believers manifest sweetness in speech and conduct, making the gospel attractive. Homiletical and Devotional Uses Jotham’s parable can frame sermons on servant leadership, the danger of self-seeking authority, or the beauty of faithful, quiet labor. Devotionally, Judges 9:11 invites personal reflection: Am I preserving the sweetness God has entrusted to me, or reaching for power that withers fruitfulness? Christological Perspective The sweetness relinquished by none but fulfilled in One: Jesus did not seek earthly dominion during His first advent but poured out life-giving fruit through self-sacrifice. In doing so, He offers “the free gift of God” (Romans 6:23), a sweetness exceeding that of any fig harvest, satisfying eternally all who partake. Forms and Transliterations מָתְקִ֔י מתקי mā·ṯə·qî mateKi māṯəqîLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel TextsEnglishman's Concordance Judges 9:11 HEB: הֶחֳדַ֙לְתִּי֙ אֶת־ מָתְקִ֔י וְאֶת־ תְּנוּבָתִ֖י NAS: to them, 'Shall I leave my sweetness and my good KJV: unto them, Should I forsake my sweetness, and my good INT: the fig leave my sweetness fruit and my good 1 Occurrence |
    |