מַצָּה

From the study of Proverbs 13:10

Range of meaning

Strife, contention, quarrel. It comes from the root nṣh, "to struggle, fight." That root is used in Exodus 2:13 of two Hebrew men fighting and in Exodus 21:22 of men brawling. The word suggests a conflict that is out in the open and possibly physical, more than private disagreement.

Against the English

"Strife," "contention," "quarrels," "conflict." All are fair. "Debate" (YLT) is too mild for modern ears, since a debate can be friendly.

Used elsewhere in the period

It occurs only three times. Proverbs 17:19: "He who loves transgression loves strife." Isaiah 58:4: "You fast only for strife and contention, to strike with a wicked fist." Both places link it with hostility and even violence.

From the study of Proverbs 17:19

Range of meaning

Strife, contention, a quarrel or fight. It is from the root nāṣāh, 'to struggle, to fight'. It is a different word from the identically spelled matstsāh, 'unleavened bread'.

Against the English

'Strife' (BSB, KJV, ESV) is accurate but a bit abstract; NIV's 'quarrel' is more concrete. YLT's 'debate' is misleading today, since in older English 'debate' meant a fight, not a reasoned discussion.

Used elsewhere in the period

The root's verb is used of two Hebrews fighting (Exodus 2:13) and of men brawling (Exodus 21:22). The noun appears only here, in Proverbs 13:10 ('by insolence comes only strife'), and in Isaiah 58:4 ('you fast only to quarrel and to fight'). Proverbs 13:10 already links pride with matstsāh, the same pairing this verse makes across its two lines.