### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **dibbâh**, represented by `{{H1681}}`, translates to **slander**, **defaming**, **evil report**, or **infamy**. It appears **9 times** in **9 unique verses**. The term is derived from a root suggesting furtive motion, highlighting the secretive and malicious nature of spreading false or damaging information.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H1681}}` is consistently associated with destructive and negative outcomes. Its first appearance is in a family context, where Joseph brought an **evil report** about his brothers to their father [[Genesis 37:2]]. It takes on national significance when the spies return with an **evil report** about the promised land, causing the people to murmur against God and Moses ([[Numbers 13:32]], [[Numbers 14:36]]). The consequences were severe, as the men who brought this **evil report** died by a plague [[Numbers 14:37]]. The word is also used to describe personal suffering, as when David hears the **slander** of his enemies who plot against him [[Psalms 31:13]], and when Jeremiah endures the **defaming** of those who wish to see him fail [[Jeremiah 20:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context and impact of **dibbâh**:
* `{{H7451}}` **raʻ** (bad or evil): This word is frequently paired with `{{H1681}}` to form the phrase "evil report." It defines the content of the `dibbâh` as inherently harmful and wicked [[Genesis 37:2]].
* `{{H3318}}` **yâtsâʼ** (to go out, bring forth, utter): This verb describes the act of spreading a `dibbâh`. The book of Proverbs warns that "he that **uttereth** a slander, is a fool" [[Proverbs 10:18]].
* `{{H3684}}` **kᵉçîyl** (stupid or silly; fool): This term describes the character of one who engages in slander. The act of spreading a `dibbâh` is presented not as a simple mistake, but as a mark of foolishness [[Proverbs 10:18]].
* `{{H8085}}` **shâmaʻ** (to hear intelligently): Slander's impact is realized when it is heard. This word is used when David and Jeremiah **heard** the slander and defaming against them, and also in the warning that he who **heareth** a matter might bring shame upon the one who revealed it ([[Psalms 31:13]], [[Proverbs 25:10]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1681}}` is significant, highlighting the severe spiritual consequences of malicious speech.
* **Rebellion Against God's Word:** The spies' "evil report" was not just a negative assessment of the land; it was a contradiction of God's promise. This act of slander against the land incited rebellion and resulted in divine judgment [[Numbers 14:37]].
* **A Weapon of the Wicked:** Slander is portrayed as a tool used to persecute the righteous. Enemies **devised** to take David's life through slander [[Psalms 31:13]], and those who opposed Jeremiah used **defaming** to try and entrap him [[Jeremiah 20:10]].
* **A Mark of Foolishness and Infamy:** Wisdom literature connects slander to a person's character and fate. Uttering slander is the action of a **fool** [[Proverbs 10:18]], and it can lead to a lasting **infamy** that will not turn away [[Proverbs 25:10]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1681}}` is not merely idle gossip but a potent form of destructive speech. It functions as a catalyst for family strife, national rebellion, and persecution of the godly. Scripture condemns the act of spreading `dibbâh`, identifying it as a characteristic of a fool and a sin that incurs severe consequences, including public infamy and divine judgment.
TRV