### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **gâʻal**, represented by `{{H1602}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to detest** or **reject**. It appears 10 times across 9 unique verses, often translated as to abhor, loathe, or vilely cast away. The word conveys a strong sense of emotional and relational repulsion, whether from God towards man, man towards God, or in human relationships.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H1602}}` is central to the language of covenant and relationship. In Leviticus, God uses it to frame both promise and warning. He promises His people, "my soul shall not **abhor** you" [[Leviticus 26:11]] as a sign of fellowship. Conversely, the consequence for disobedience is that God's "soul shall **abhor** you" [[Leviticus 26:30]]. The term is also used to describe human sin, as when Israel's "soul **abhorred** my statutes" [[Leviticus 26:43]]. The word is used by the prophet Jeremiah to question if God's soul has **lothed** Zion [[Jeremiah 14:19]], and in a different context, to describe how the shield of Saul was "vilely **cast away**" after his death [[2 Samuel 1:21]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of abhorrence and its consequences:
* `{{H3988}}` **mâʼaç** (to spurn; abhor, cast away): This word is often used in parallel with `{{H1602}}` to signify total rejection. For instance, Israel's sin is described as when they **despised** God's judgments and their soul **abhorred** His statutes [[Leviticus 26:43]]. In Jeremiah, the people ask if God has utterly **rejected** Judah and **lothed** Zion [[Jeremiah 14:19]].
* `{{H6565}}` **pârar** (to break up; violate, frustrate): This term is linked to the outcome of abhorrence. Breaking the covenant is the direct result when the people's soul **abhor** God's judgments [[Leviticus 26:15]]. God promises not to **abhor** His people in a way that would **break** His covenant with them [[Leviticus 26:44]].
* `{{H3615}}` **kâlâh** (to end; consume, fail): This word connects abhorrence to utter destruction or failure. God vows that even in exile, He will not **abhor** His people enough to **destroy them utterly** [[Leviticus 26:44]]. This word's meaning of "to fail" also aligns with the unique use of `{{H1602}}` in Job, where a bull "faileth not" [[Job 21:10]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1602}}` is significant, highlighting key principles in God's relationship with humanity.
* **Covenant Relationship:** The word functions as a barometer for the health of the covenant. God's promise not to **abhor** His people is a pledge of His faithfulness [[Leviticus 26:11]], while the people's choice to **abhor** His laws constitutes a fundamental breach of that relationship [[Leviticus 26:15]].
* **Consequence of Idolatry:** Divine abhorrence is presented as a direct reaction to sin, especially idolatry. In response to Israel's disobedience, God warns, "my soul shall **abhor** you" [[Leviticus 26:30]], linking His rejection to the destruction of their idols and high places.
* **Divine Mercy Amidst Judgment:** Even when warning of judgment, God's use of `{{H1602}}` reveals His mercy. He clarifies that His rejection is not absolute, promising that even in the land of their enemies, He will not **abhor** them to the point of breaking His covenant or destroying them completely [[Leviticus 26:44]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1602}}` is a potent term expressing deep-seated loathing and rejection. It is foundational to understanding the conditions of the covenant in Leviticus, defining both the intimacy of God's fellowship and the severity of His judgment. From the divine soul's abhorrence of sin to a disgraced shield on the battlefield, **gâʻal** illustrates the profound consequences of being cast away, while also framing the limits of God's rejection in His ultimate faithfulness.
TRV