### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **hôwlêlâh**, represented by `{{H1947}}`, denotes **madness** or **folly**. It appears 4 times across 4 unique verses, exclusively within the book of Ecclesiastes. This term is used to describe a profound state of mind tied to the human condition and the pursuit of understanding life under the sun.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the book of Ecclesiastes, `{{H1947}}` is consistently presented as a subject of intense philosophical investigation. The Preacher sets out to "know wisdom, and to know **madness** and folly" [[Ecclesiastes 1:17]], treating it as a key component in his quest for meaning. This **madness** is not just an abstract concept but a tangible human affliction, with the text stating that the "heart of the sons of men is full of evil, and **madness** is in their heart while they live" [[Ecclesiastes 9:3]]. It is framed as the ultimate expression of a life lived apart from divine wisdom [[Ecclesiastes 7:25]].
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept of **madness** is clarified by its relationship to several other Hebrew words:
* `{{H5531}}` **çiklûwth** (silliness; folly, foolishness): This term is frequently paired with **hôwlêlâh**. The Preacher seeks to know "madness and **folly**" together, suggesting they are closely related aspects of a life devoid of true wisdom ([[Ecclesiastes 1:17]], [[Ecclesiastes 2:12]]).
* `{{H3689}}` **keçel** (folly, silliness, or trust): In his search, the Preacher desires to understand "the wickedness of **folly**, even of foolishness and madness," linking `{{H1947}}` to a broader category of foolish behavior [[Ecclesiastes 7:25]].
* `{{H3820}}` **lêb** (the heart; feelings, will, intellect): The **heart** is identified as the seat of this **madness**. The Preacher gives his **heart** to know it [[Ecclesiastes 1:17]], and later observes that **madness** is "in their **heart**" for all of humanity [[Ecclesiastes 9:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1947}}` is centered on its use in wisdom literature to diagnose the human condition.
* **A Symptom of a Fallen World:** The statement that **madness** is in the heart of humanity, which is also "full of evil," presents this condition as a consequence of life "under the sun," separate from God's wisdom [[Ecclesiastes 9:3]].
* **The Antithesis of Wisdom:** Throughout its uses, `{{H1947}}` is placed in direct opposition to wisdom. The Preacher's journey involves beholding both wisdom and **madness**, ultimately to show the superiority and value of wisdom [[Ecclesiastes 2:12]].
* **An Element of Human Experience:** By giving his heart "to know **madness**," the Preacher acknowledges it as a real and powerful force in the human experience that must be confronted and understood in the pursuit of truth ([[Ecclesiastes 1:17]], [[Ecclesiastes 7:25]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1947}}` is more than a clinical term for insanity; it is a profound concept in biblical wisdom literature. It represents a state of spiritual and intellectual folly that characterizes a life lived without divine perspective. Through his investigation of **madness**, the Preacher of Ecclesiastes highlights the universal human struggle and ultimately points to the futility of any path that does not lead back to wisdom.
TRV