The Hebrew word hâthath, represented by H2050, is a primitive root that properly means to break in upon or to assail. In its biblical context, it is translated as to imagine mischief. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only 1 times across 1 unique verses in the Bible.
The sole appearance of H2050 is in Psalms 62:3, where the psalmist confronts his adversaries: "How long will ye imagine mischief against a man?". The word describes the persistent, hostile intent of those who plot against another person H376. The verse immediately connects this malicious action to a dire consequence, proclaiming that the plotters will be slain and become "as a bowing wall... and as a tottering fence." This establishes a direct link between the act of assailing someone and one's own eventual collapse.
The imagery used in the verse containing H2050 is illuminated by several related words:
- H376 ʼîysh (a man as an individual or a male person): This word identifies the target of the action of H2050. The mischief is directed against "a man," highlighting the personal nature of the assault described in Psalms 62:3.
- H7023 qîyr (a wall): This term is part of the powerful simile describing the fate of those who "imagine mischief." They will become like a "bowing wall" Psalms 62:3, an image of impending structural failure and collapse.
- H1760 dâchâh (to push down): Used to describe the "tottering" fence, this word emphasizes instability and the act of being overthrown. It reflects the ultimate destiny of those who engage in the destructive plotting of H2050.
- H1447 gâdêr (an inclosure; fence, hedge, wall): Paired with "wall," this word describes a "tottering fence" Psalms 62:3, reinforcing the metaphor of a compromised and failing structure that can no longer stand.
The singular use of H2050 carries significant theological weight within its context.
- The Intent of Malice: The term focuses on the act of imagining mischief, suggesting that the sin lies not just in the final action but in the hostile planning and intent to assail another person H376.
- Destined Collapse: The verse links the act of H2050 directly to a specific judgment. Those who plot destruction against others are told they "shall be slain" H7523 and become like unstable structures themselves.
- The Imagery of Ruin: The consequence for this malice is illustrated vividly. The attackers will become like a "bowing wall" (H5186, H7023) and a "tottering fence" (H1760, H1447), a metaphor for complete structural failure and ruin, indicating that their own foundations will give way.
In summary, while H2050 appears only once, it provides a powerful and specific depiction of malicious intent. It is more than just a physical attack; it is the act of plotting to break in upon and assail another. Its use in Psalms 62:3 serves as a stark warning: those who imagine mischief against others are destined for a fate of complete collapse, much like a failing wall or a tottering fence.
TRV