The Hebrew verb mug means to melt, dissolve, become soft, or faint. It describes the physical or emotional disintegration that occurs in the face of overwhelming power, fear, or divine presence. The word paints a vivid picture of solid things losing their form — whether the earth trembling, hearts failing, or courage dissolving.
When the inhabitants of Canaan heard of Israel's crossing the Red Sea, their hearts melted (Joshua 2:11). When God appears in theophany, the very mountains melt before Him (Psalm 46:6, Amos 9:5). This word reveals the absolute sovereignty of God — all creation, no matter how seemingly solid or powerful, dissolves before His presence. It also speaks to the proper human response before the Almighty: a melting of self-reliance and pride, yielding to the One before whom nothing can stand.