from הָתַל (only in plural collectively); a derision; mocker.
Transliteration:hâthôl
Pronunciation:haw-thole'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma הָתֹל (hâthôl, `{{H2049}}`) is a noun derived from the verb הָתַל (hâthal, `{{H2048}}`), which signifies "to mock," "to deride," "to scoff," or "to deceive." As a noun, הָתֹל (hâthôl) specifically refers to "mockers" or "scoffers." The base definition indicates that it is used in a collective plural sense, denoting a group or characteristic behavior of those who engage in derision. The core meaning thus encapsulates an attitude of contemptuous ridicule, often born out of spiritual arrogance or a deliberate disregard for truth and divine authority. It implies a flippant and dismissive posture rather than a genuine engagement with the subject of their scorn.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term הָתֹל (hâthôl, `{{H2049}}`) has a singular occurrence within the Hebrew Bible, found exclusively in [[Isaiah 28:22]]. This verse is part of a broader prophetic oracle against the leaders of Jerusalem, whom Isaiah describes as "scoffers" or "mockers."
The full context of [[Isaiah 28:22]] reads: "Now therefore do not be mockers, lest your bonds be made strong; for I have heard from the Lord GOD of hosts a consumption, even a determined consumption upon the whole earth."
In this passage, the "mockers" are implicitly the rulers and influential figures in Jerusalem, who are characterized by their dismissive attitude towards God's warnings and prophetic messages. Their mockery is not merely verbal but reflects a deep-seated spiritual rebellion and a false sense of security (cf. [[Isaiah 28:15]], where they boast of a "covenant with death" and an "agreement with Sheol"). They believe themselves immune to divine judgment. Isaiah's warning highlights that their derision will not protect them but will, in fact, strengthen the very "bonds" or "fetters" of judgment that await them. Their scoffing is a symptom of their spiritual blindness and obstinacy in the face of impending divine wrath, which is described as a "determined consumption" upon the whole land.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding הָתֹל (hâthôl, `{{H2049}}`) is enhanced by examining its root verb and other related terms for mockery in Hebrew:
* **הָתַל (hâthal, `{{H2048}}`):** The root verb from which הָתֹל (hâthôl) is derived. This verb appears in contexts of deliberate deception and ridicule. For instance, Elijah uses it to mock the prophets of Baal in [[1 Kings 18:27]], and Job questions whether one can mock God as one mocks a man in [[Job 13:9]].
* **לָעַג (la'ag, `{{H3932}}`):** A common verb meaning "to mock," "to deride," or "to scoff." It often denotes open contempt and is used frequently in Psalms and Proverbs (e.g., [[Psalm 2:4]], [[Psalm 59:8]], [[Proverbs 1:26]]).
* **לֵץ (lets, `{{H3887}}`):** A noun frequently translated as "scoffer" or "mocker," particularly prominent in wisdom literature. A "scoffer" is depicted as one who rejects instruction, despises wisdom, and delights in insolence (e.g., [[Proverbs 1:22]], [[Proverbs 9:7-8]], [[Proverbs 19:25]]). The scoffer represents a distinct character type opposed to the wise.
* **קָלַס (qalas, `{{H7046}}`):** Another verb meaning "to mock," "to scoff," or "to deride," often implying a lighthearted or scornful dismissal of something serious (e.g., [[Jeremiah 20:7]]).
While these terms share semantic overlap, הָתֹל (hâthôl) in Isaiah specifically points to a collective group, likely the leadership, whose derision of divine truth leads to severe, self-inflicted consequences.
### Theological Significance
The singular yet potent use of הָתֹל (hâthôl, `{{H2049}}`) in [[Isaiah 28:22]] carries profound theological weight. It underscores the gravity of mocking divine revelation and God's messengers. Such an attitude is not merely a social slight but a direct act of defiance against God's authority and wisdom. The passage reveals that God does not tolerate scorn for His word, and indeed, such derision precipitates judgment rather than averting it.
The warning that their "bonds will be made strong" serves as a powerful theological statement: human rebellion and mockery of God's truth do not free individuals but rather bind them more tightly to the consequences of their sin. Their rejection of divine counsel leads to a hardening of their hearts and an intensification of their impending doom. This illustrates a fundamental principle of divine justice: those who scorn God's warnings will find themselves caught in the very snares they dismiss. The passage implicitly contrasts the fleeting, arrogant wisdom of humanity with the unerring, sovereign wisdom of the Lord GOD of hosts, whose determined judgment will inevitably come to pass regardless of human scoffing.
### Summary
The Hebrew term הָתֹל (hâthôl, `{{H2049}}`), derived from the root הָתַל (hâthal, `{{H2048}}`), refers to "mockers" or "scoffers." Its sole appearance in [[Isaiah 28:22]] is a powerful indictment against the leaders of Jerusalem, whose contemptuous disregard for divine warnings is portrayed as a grave offense. This mockery is not a trivial act but a manifestation of spiritual rebellion that actively strengthens the "bonds" of impending judgment, leading to their inevitable destruction. Theologically, הָתֹל (hâthôl) highlights that scoffing at God's word is a serious affront that hardens the heart, invites divine wrath, and ultimately ensures the very calamity it attempts to dismiss.
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