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.
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.
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).
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.
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