a primitive root; to plan, usually in a bad sense; consider, devise, imagine, plot, purpose, think (evil).
Transliteration:zâmam
Pronunciation:zaw-mam'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew verb `{{H2161}}` *zâmam* is a primitive root carrying the core meaning of "to plan" or "to devise." Crucially, its usage in the Hebrew Bible is predominantly, almost exclusively, in a negative sense. Unlike other verbs for planning (e.g., `{{H2803}}` *chashav*), *zâmam* inherently conveys malicious intent, wicked scheming, or plotting. Its semantic range extends to "consider (evil)," "imagine (evil)," "plot," and "purpose (evil)." It describes the internal machinations of the heart and mind directed towards harm, injustice, or rebellion against God and His people. The focus is on the deliberate, premeditated nature of evil intent, moving beyond mere impulse to calculated design.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The occurrences of `{{H2161}}` *zâmam* consistently underscore its negative connotation. In the wisdom literature, particularly Proverbs, it frequently appears in contexts warning against or condemning evil intentions:
* [[Proverbs 3:29]] admonishes, "Do not devise evil against your neighbor, while he dwells securely by you." Here, *zâmam* highlights the treachery of plotting against one who trusts.
* [[Proverbs 12:2]] (though using the noun *mezimmah*, a direct derivative) speaks of "a man of evil devices" whom the Lord condemns, illustrating the fruit of such planning.
* [[Proverbs 16:30]] notes, "He who winks his eye *devises* perverse things," linking the internal plotting with external signs of deceit.
In the Psalms, *zâmam* describes the actions of the wicked against the righteous:
* [[Psalm 37:12]] states, "The wicked plots against the just, And gnashes at him with his teeth." The verb here vividly portrays the active, hostile intent of the oppressor.
The prophets also employ *zâmam* to condemn the nation's or individuals' wickedness:
* [[Jeremiah 11:19]] laments, "But I was like a gentle lamb led to the slaughter; And I did not know that they had devised schemes against me." This passage powerfully conveys the insidious nature of the plots against the prophet.
* [[Zechariah 7:10]] gives a divine command: "and do not devise evil in your hearts against one another." This underscores that the internal plotting of evil is a direct violation of God's law and communal harmony.
These contexts reveal *zâmam* as the mental act preceding and fueling unjust actions, betrayal, and oppression. It is the heart's dark design.
### Related Words & Concepts
The negative nuance of `{{H2161}}` *zâmam* is often clarified by contrasting it with or associating it with other Hebrew terms for planning and thought.
* The noun `{{H4209}}` *mezimmah* (device, discretion, evil purpose) is a direct derivative, frequently carrying the same negative connotation of malicious intent (e.g., [[Proverbs 24:8]], [[Psalm 10:2]]). However, *mezimmah* can also refer to positive "discretion" or "prudence" in wisdom literature (e.g., [[Proverbs 1:4]], [[Proverbs 2:11]]), highlighting that the *root* of planning can be applied for good or ill, but the verb *zâmam* itself is almost exclusively negative.
* In contrast, verbs like `{{H2803}}` *chashav* (to think, plan, devise) can be neutral or even positive, referring to righteous intentions or skilled craftsmanship (e.g., [[Exodus 31:4]], [[Psalm 33:11]]). This distinction emphasizes the inherent moral valence of *zâmam*.
* The concept of "counsel" (`{{H6098}}` *etsah*) can also be either good or evil, depending on its source and purpose (e.g., God's good counsel vs. wicked counsel). *Zâmam* consistently falls into the category of "evil counsel" or "wicked devices."
Thus, *zâmam* is specifically concerned with the internal, deliberate formulation of plans that are inherently malevolent, setting it apart from more general terms for thought or planning.
### Theological Significance
The consistent use of `{{H2161}}` *zâmam* to denote evil plotting carries significant theological weight.
1. **Human Depravity:** It highlights the depth of human sin, demonstrating that evil is not merely impulsive but can be deeply rooted in premeditated thought and intention. The heart, as the seat of such plotting, is shown to be deceitful and desperately wicked (cf. [[Jeremiah 17:9]]).
2. **Divine Justice and Omniscience:** God is depicted as knowing and judging the secret plots of the wicked. Even the most hidden schemes are not concealed from Him. This understanding provides comfort to the righteous, knowing that their oppressors' designs are transparent before God, and ultimately futile.
3. **God's Sovereignty:** Despite human plotting, the Bible often asserts God's ultimate control. While humans *zâmam* evil, God's purposes will prevail (cf. [[Proverbs 19:21]]). The evil devised by humans can even be overruled or used by God for His own righteous ends (e.g., Joseph's brothers' plot in [[Genesis 50:20]]).
4. **Ethical Imperative:** The repeated warnings against *zâmam* serve as a strong ethical imperative for believers to guard their hearts and minds, cultivating righteous intentions rather than malicious ones. It calls for a life marked by integrity and love, free from the desire to harm others.
### Summary
The Hebrew verb {{H2161}}` *zâmam* denotes the act of "planning" or "devising," almost exclusively with a negative, malicious connotation. It describes the deliberate, premeditated formulation of evil schemes, plots, and wicked intentions against others or against God's will. Occurring frequently in wisdom literature, Psalms, and prophetic books, *zâmam* illuminates the depth of human depravity and the insidious nature of internal wickedness. While related words for "planning" can be neutral or positive, *zâmam* stands out for its inherent moral condemnation. Theologically, its usage underscores God's omniscience regarding human evil, His ultimate sovereignty over all plans, and the biblical call for believers to cultivate hearts free from malicious designs.
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