### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **gûwmmâts**, represented by `{{H1475}}`, is defined as **a pit**. Of uncertain derivation, this word appears only **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Its sole usage is found within a proverb that illustrates a principle of natural consequences and retributive justice.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its single biblical context, `{{H1475}}` is used to convey the idea that malicious actions often lead to self-inflicted harm. The book of Ecclesiastes states, "He that diggeth a **pit** shall fall into it" [[Ecclesiastes 10:8]]. This phrase is presented as a straightforward observation of cause and effect, set in parallel with a similar warning: "and whoso breaketh an hedge, a serpent shall bite him." The use of `{{H1475}}` here creates a powerful and memorable image of a trap backfiring on its creator.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of `{{H1475}}` is illuminated by the words surrounding it in its only appearance:
* `{{H2658}}` **châphar** (to delve, to explore; dig, paw, search out, seek): This is the verb describing the creation of the pit. It is used for both literal digging, as when a pit is made [[Psalms 7:15]], and for exploration, such as to "search out" a country [[Joshua 2:3]].
* `{{H5307}}` **nâphal** (to fall): This word describes the consequence for the one who digs the pit. It is used broadly for falling, whether it is a just man who "falleth seven times, and riseth up again" [[Proverbs 24:16]] or the symbolic fall from heaven [[Isaiah 14:12]].
* `{{H1447}}` **gâdêr** (a circumvallation; by implication, an inclosure; fence, hedge, wall): This word appears in the parallel phrase in [[Ecclesiastes 10:8]]. A hedge or wall typically serves as protection, as seen in the plea to God for "a wall in Judah and in Jerusalem" [[Ezra 9:9]].
* `{{H5175}}` **nâshâsh** (a snake (from its hiss); serpent): This is the agent of consequence for one who breaches a hedge. The term is famously used for the serpent in the garden [[Genesis 3:1]] and the bronze serpent made by Moses [[Numbers 21:9]].
* `{{H5391}}` **nâshak** (to strike with a sting (as a serpent); figuratively, to oppress with interest on a loan; bite): This action is the direct result of disturbing the serpent, as when the fiery serpents "bit the people" in the wilderness [[Numbers 21:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological concept associated with `{{H1475}}` is centered on the principle of divine and natural justice.
* **The Law of Reciprocity:** The primary theme is that the harm intended for another will return to the perpetrator. The act of digging a **pit** `{{H1475}}` for someone else leads directly to falling `{{H5307}}` into it oneself, a clear illustration of retributive justice [[Ecclesiastes 10:8]].
* **Actions Have Consequences:** The use of **gûwmmâts** provides a concrete metaphor for a universal moral law. Just as breaking a physical boundary like a hedge `{{H1447}}` invites danger from a serpent `{{H5175}}`, so does the act of preparing a hidden trap for another person.
* **The Folly of Malice:** The imagery of digging a pit suggests a premeditated, deceptive plan. The verse demonstrates the ultimate futility and self-destructive nature of such scheming. This is reinforced by a similar proverb where enemies "have digged a pit for my soul" [[Psalms 35:7]].
### Summary
In summary, though **gûwmmâts** `{{H1475}}` is a very rare word, its singular appearance in scripture is highly significant. It functions as a potent symbol within a proverb about cause and effect. As the object dug `{{H2658}}` by a malicious person who ultimately falls `{{H5307}}` into it, the **pit** serves as a timeless and unforgettable warning about the certainty of consequences, illustrating a core principle of biblical wisdom [[Ecclesiastes 10:8]].
TRV