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H4856 · Hebrew · Old Testament
מַשֹּׂא
masso
Noun
partiality, exaltation, burden

Definition

Masso (H4856) comes from nasa (to lift up) and specifically refers to the 'lifting up of the face' — showing partiality or favor. It is used in legal/judicial contexts (2 Chr 19:7, Job 13:8) to describe the unjust favoritism that corrupts justice. God Himself is described as one who shows no masso — He does not show partiality (Deut 10:17, 2 Chr 19:7).

Usage & Theological Significance

The theology of impartiality is central to biblical justice. God shows no partiality: He does not favor the rich, the powerful, or the familiar (Job 34:19, Acts 10:34). His justice is perfectly calibrated to truth alone. This standard cascades down to human judges (Lev 19:15), to the church (James 2:1-9 — showing partiality is sin), and to the final judgment (Rom 2:11 — 'with God there is no partiality'). The elimination of masso is a defining characteristic of God's kingdom — a world where the poor and the powerful stand equally before the throne.

Key Bible Verses

2 Chronicles 19:7 Now then, let the fear of the LORD be upon you. Be careful what you do, for there is no injustice with the LORD our God, or partiality [masso] or taking bribes.
Job 13:8 Will you show partiality [masso] toward him? Will you plead the case for God?
Deuteronomy 10:17 For the LORD your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great, the mighty, and the awesome God, who is not partial and takes no bribe.
Romans 2:11 For God shows no partiality.
James 2:1 My brothers, show no partiality as you hold the faith in our Lord Jesus Christ.

Related Words

External Resources

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