### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **hôvâh**, represented by `{{H1943}}`, denotes **ruin** or **mischief**. As another form for הַוָּה, this term is rare, appearing only **3 times** in **2 unique verses**. It specifically describes a calamity or destructive event that is overwhelming and ruinous in nature.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H1943}}` signifies a catastrophic and inescapable judgment. The prophet Isaiah describes how **mischief** will fall upon Babylon, a calamity that cannot be put off or appeased [[Isaiah 47:11]]. Ezekiel uses the term to depict a compounding disaster, stating that "**mischief** shall come upon **mischief**" [[Ezekiel 7:26]]. This occurs during a time of great distress, when people will seek guidance from prophets, but find that the law has perished from the priests and counsel is lost from the elders.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the severe nature of the ruin described by **hôvâh**:
* `{{H5307}}` **nâphal** (to fall): This word describes the action associated with the mischief, as it will "**fall** upon" its target, indicating a sudden and unavoidable event [[Isaiah 47:11]].
* `{{H7722}}` **shôwʼ** (desolation): Used in parallel with **hôvâh**, this term emphasizes the devastating and wasteful nature of the coming judgment, described as a **desolation** that arrives suddenly [[Isaiah 47:11]].
* `{{H8052}}` **shᵉmûwʻâh** (rumour): In Ezekiel's prophecy, the phrase "mischief upon mischief" is paired with "**rumour** shall be upon **rumour**," illustrating a state of escalating chaos and confusion that accompanies the ruin [[Ezekiel 7:26]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1943}}` lies in its depiction of absolute and conclusive judgment.
* **Inescapable Calamity:** The **mischief** described is one that cannot be put off or atoned for `{{H3722}}`, signifying a final judgment from which there is no reprieve or reconciliation [[Isaiah 47:11]].
* **Compounding Disaster:** The repetition in Ezekiel, "**mischief** upon **mischief**," suggests a cascading and overwhelming series of events that break down societal order and lead to widespread despair [[Ezekiel 7:26]].
* **Silence of Godly Counsel:** This ruin is linked to a time when traditional sources of spiritual guidance become unavailable. The law perishes from the priest `{{H3548}}` and counsel from the ancients `{{H2205}}`, leaving the people in a state of spiritual crisis without direction [[Ezekiel 7:26]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1943}}` is a powerful and specific term for a ruinous event that is far more severe than ordinary trouble. It characterizes a final, inescapable judgment that comes as a compounding disaster. Its presence in Scripture marks a time of catastrophic collapse, where both social order and divine guidance seem to vanish, leaving only desolation.
TRV