### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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.
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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