### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **gᵉdûwphâh**, represented by `{{H1422}}`, means a **revilement** or **taunt**. As a feminine passive participle of גָּדַף, its meaning is rooted in the act of being reviled. This specific term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, highlighting its very specific application.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H1422}}` is in [[Ezekiel 5:15]], where it is used in the context of a divine judgment. The LORD declares that the subject of His judgment will become "a reproach and a **taunt**" to the surrounding nations. This is not a random occurrence but a direct consequence delivered with "anger and in fury and in furious rebukes." The term's placement shows that part of the divine punishment is to become an object of public mockery and derision.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of `{{H1422}}` is illuminated by the words used alongside it in its single biblical context:
* `{{H2781}}` **cherpâh** (rebuke, reproach(-fully), shame): This word denotes disgrace and contumely. It is often used to describe the shame suffered by God's people, which the LORD promises to one day take away [[Isaiah 25:8]]. Its pairing with **taunt** emphasizes the element of public dishonor.
* `{{H4148}}` **mûwçâr** (instruction, rebuke): This term signifies chastisement, discipline, and correction. While the judgment is severe, its description as an **instruction** [[Ezekiel 5:15]] implies it is meant to serve as a warning or lesson. The chastening of the LORD is something his children are warned not to despise [[Proverbs 3:11]].
* `{{H4923}}` **mᵉshammâh** (astonishment, desolate): This word conveys a sense of waste, amazement, or desolation. It connects the verbal **taunt** to a physical state of ruin that causes shock and **astonishment** in those who witness it, as seen in the prophecies of a desolate land [[Ezekiel 33:29]].
* `{{H8433}}` **tôwkêchâh** (rebuke, reproof): This word refers to correction and refutation, often through words. In [[Ezekiel 5:15]], the judgment is executed with furious **rebukes**, linking the punishment directly to a corrective, verbal act from God.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1422}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful usage.
* **Public Judgment:** The word signifies that God's judgment is not always a private matter. It can manifest as public shame, where the punished party becomes a **taunt** and a warning to the nations [[Ezekiel 5:15]].
* **Instructive Consequence:** By appearing alongside **instruction** `{{H4148}}` and **rebukes** `{{H8433}}`, the concept of a **taunt** is framed as a didactic tool. The shame is intended to teach a lesson to both the recipient and the onlookers.
* **Divine Proclamation:** The context of the judgment is sealed with the phrase "I the LORD have spoken it" [[Ezekiel 5:15]]. This establishes that the **taunt** is not a result of circumstance but a deliberate, spoken judgment from God himself, underscoring His sovereignty over the fates of nations and individuals.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1422}}` is a highly specific term for a **taunt** or **revilement**. Its singular appearance in scripture places it squarely within the context of divine judgment. It describes a form of punishment that involves public disgrace, meant to serve as both an **instruction** to the nations and a furious **rebuke** from God. The word powerfully illustrates how divine judgment can include social shame as a tangible and visible consequence of disobedience.
TRV