from בּוּשׁ; shame (the feeling and the condition, as well as its cause); by implication (specifically) an idol; ashamed, confusion, [phrase] greatly, (put to) shame(-ful thing).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **bôsheth**, represented by `{{H1322}}`, primarily denotes **shame**. It appears **30 times** across **29 unique verses** in the Bible. The term stems from the root word for being ashamed, `{{H954}}`, and encompasses the feeling and condition of shame, its cause, and by implication, an idol, often referred to as a "shameful thing."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{H1322}}` is frequently linked to the consequences of sin and disobedience. It is described as a state of "confusion of face" resulting from trespass against God ([[Ezra 9:7]], [[Daniel 9:7]]). This can be a personal affliction, as when Jeremiah laments that his days are consumed with **shame** [[Jeremiah 20:18]], or a national disgrace, where Israel must "lie down in our **shame**" for sinning against the LORD [[Jeremiah 3:25]]. The word is also used to describe the fate of God's enemies, whom He promises to clothe with **shame** [[Psalms 132:18]], and those who trust in idols [[Isaiah 42:17]]. Conversely, God promises to reverse this condition for His people, replacing their **shame** with double honor [[Isaiah 61:7]] and everlasting joy.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to define the full scope of shame and disgrace in the scriptures:
* `{{H954}}` **bûwsh** (to be ashamed): As the root of **bôsheth**, this verb describes the act of being ashamed, confounded, or disappointed. It is often used in parallel with `{{H1322}}` to describe a state of utter confusion [[Psalms 35:26]].
* `{{H3639}}` **kᵉlimmâh** (disgrace): This noun, often translated as confusion or dishonor, frequently appears alongside **bôsheth** to intensify the description of public disgrace and reproach ([[Jeremiah 3:25]], [[Psalms 109:29]]).
* `{{H2781}}` **cherpâh** (rebuke, reproach): This term refers to the contumely and disgrace associated with shame. It is used to describe the reproach of widowhood, which God promises to remove along with the **shame** of youth [[Isaiah 54:4]].
* `{{H1168}}` **Baʻal** (Baal, a Phoenician deity): The connection is made explicit when the worship of this idol is called a **shameful thing** `{{H1322}}`, directly linking idolatry with the concept of **bôsheth** [[Jeremiah 11:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1322}}` is significant, highlighting the spiritual consequences of turning away from God.
* **A Consequence of Sin**: **Bôsheth** is presented not merely as an emotion but as a spiritual condition resulting from iniquity `{{H5771}}` and trespass `{{H819}}`. The people of Israel experience "confusion of face" because they have sinned against God [[Daniel 9:8]].
* **Idolatry as Ultimate Shame**: The term is specifically used to refer to idols as a "**shameful thing**" [[Jeremiah 11:13]]. In Hosea, Israel's devotion to Baalpeor `{{H1187}}` is described as separating themselves "unto that **shame**" [[Hosea 9:10]], framing idolatry as the ultimate cause of disgrace.
* **A Condition to be Overcome by God**: Scripture shows that **shame** is a state from which God delivers His people. He promises to turn their **shame** into praise `{{H8416}}` and fame `{{H8034}}` [[Zephaniah 3:19]] and to clothe His enemies with it instead [[Psalms 132:18]]. This demonstrates that shame is not the final word for those who are faithful.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1322}}` **bôsheth** is a deeply significant term that moves beyond simple embarrassment. It represents the profound disgrace that follows sin, the inherent shamefulness of idolatry, and the state of confusion that afflicts those who oppose God. Yet, it also serves as a backdrop for God's redemptive power, as He promises to remove the **shame** of His people and restore their honor.
TRV