The Hebrew word dophîy, represented by H1848, defines a stumbling-block or, in its single biblical use, an act of slander. It is derived from an unused root meaning "to push over." This word appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse, indicating a very specific and targeted meaning within the scriptures.
The sole appearance of H1848 is in Psalms 50:20, where it describes a grave offense against a family member. The verse states, "Thou sittest and speakest against thy brother; thou slanderest thine own mother's son." In this context, to slanderest is an act committed against the closest of kin—one's own brother and mother's son, highlighting a profound betrayal of trust and natural affection. The action is deliberate, done while one "sittest" H3427 and "speakest" H1696.
Several related words from its context help illuminate the meaning of H1848:
- H1696 dâbar (to speak): The slander of H1848 is a specific, destructive form of speech. This root word for speaking is used when God makes promises Genesis 28:15 and when He commands His prophets, showing the power that words carry.
- H251 ʼâch (a brother): This term defines the target of the slander, emphasizing that the sin is not against a stranger but against one's own kin. The bonds of brotherhood are meant for unity and support Psalms 133:1.
- H1121 bên (a son): The offense is intensified by specifying the target as "thine own mother's son" Psalms 50:20. This term, central to family and lineage, underscores the violation of the most fundamental human relationships.
- H5414 nâthan (to give, put, make): This verb is used to frame the act of slander in Psalms 50:20, implying that slander is something that is actively "given" or "put" upon another person, much like a stumbling-block is placed in someone's path.
The theological weight of H1848 is concentrated in its condemnation of treacherous speech within covenant relationships.
- Betrayal of Kinship: The act of slandering a "brother" is presented as a serious sin. Scripture elsewhere questions such treachery, asking, "why do we deal treacherously every man against his brother?" Malachi 2:10, framing it as a violation of the covenant with God.
- Sin of the Tongue: By being set in the context of "speakest against," H1848 represents a specific type of sinful speech that is condemned. It is a deliberate verbal attack intended to cause harm or ruin.
- Divine Judgment on the Wicked: The word appears in a psalm where God is addressing and judging the wicked for their hypocrisy and sin. The use of H1848 serves as a specific charge in a divine indictment, demonstrating that such internal, familial betrayal does not go unnoticed by God.
In summary, H1848 is a rare but powerful term for slander. Though used only once, its context in Psalms 50:20 gives it significant weight, portraying it as a deliberate and damaging act of verbal aggression. It specifically highlights the gravity of turning against one's own family, making it a "stumbling-block" that violates the most sacred human bonds and incurs divine judgment.
TRV