Lexical Summary mishgeh: Error, mistake, delusion Original Word: מִשְׁגֶּה Strong's Exhaustive Concordance oversight From shagah; an error -- oversight. see HEBREW shagah NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom shagah Definition a mistake NASB Translation mistake (1). Brown-Driver-Briggs מִשְׁגֶּה noun masculine mistake Genesis 43:12 (J). Topical Lexicon Overview מִשְׁגֶּה (mishgeh) appears only once in the Hebrew Scriptures, Genesis 43:12, where Jacob tells his sons, “Take double the money with you, and take back the money that was returned in the mouths of your sacks. Perhaps it was a mistake” (Berean Standard Bible). Though rare in occurrence, the noun carries the idea of an inadvertent fault or miscalculation—an error without deliberate intent. Its solitary use in the account of Joseph heightens the dramatic tension in that narrative while illustrating larger biblical themes of human fallibility and divine providence. Old Testament Context 1. Narrative Setting Historical and Cultural Significance Ancient Near Eastern commerce required weighing precious metals rather than using coinage. A bookkeeping error in such transactions could have grave diplomatic consequences, especially when dealing with powerful officials like the Egyptian vizier. Jacob’s careful response demonstrates the patriarchal commitment to integrity in a world where misunderstandings could escalate quickly into accusations of theft or espionage. His action models wisdom: assume the best, rectify potential wrongs promptly, and trust God with the outcome. Theological Reflections 1. Human Limitation vs. Divine Sovereignty Ministry and Pastoral Application • Encourage believers to examine financial and relational dealings for unintentional wrongs and to make restitution when needed. Homiletical Insights A message built around mishgeh can contrast deliberate sin with accidental fault, stressing integrity when motives are questioned. Jacob’s directive provides a practical outline: identify possible wrongs, return what is not yours, add a double measure of goodwill, and entrust the unresolved to God. Such an approach resonates with Romans 12:17-18, “Provide things honest in the sight of all men… live peaceably with all men.” Devotional Meditation When circumstances seem unfair or perplexing, believers may echo Jacob’s heart: “Perhaps it was a mistake.” Maintaining a posture of grace toward others’ actions, while also correcting any potential wrongs on our part, safeguards unity and keeps consciences clear before God (1 John 3:21). Mishgeh therefore calls the faithful to humility—ready to confess error, eager to restore, and confident that the Lord oversees every detail, even those arising from human oversight. Forms and Transliterations מִשְׁגֶּ֖ה משגה miš·geh mišgeh mishGehLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel TextsEnglishman's Concordance Genesis 43:12 HEB: בְיֶדְכֶ֔ם אוּלַ֥י מִשְׁגֶּ֖ה הֽוּא׃ NAS: perhaps it was a mistake. KJV: in your hand; peradventure it [was] an oversight: INT: your hand perhaps A mistake he 1 Occurrence |